Reading Fluency
The Bridge to comprehension
The Department for Education (DfE) has launched a new fluency-focused programme aimed at improving reading outcomes for Key Stage 2 pupils who have secured phonics skills but continue to struggle with reading comprehension.
Recognising that decoding words is only the first step in becoming a fluent reader. The programme targets children who can read words accurately but lack the fluency and understanding needed to fully engage with texts. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between phonics proficiency and confident, independent reading.
This new programme prioritises the development of reading fluency, including choosing appropriate texts, prosody, and vocabulary, to support better comprehension. Through guided oral reading, repeated practice, and targeted teacher support, pupils gain the tools to read more smoothly and with greater understanding. As their fluency improves, so does their confidence, enabling them to access a wider range of texts across the curriculum. Ultimately, the programme aims to foster a more positive reading experience and ensure that more pupils leave primary school as capable and enthusiastic readers.
Programme Aims
to improve outcomes for children who lack fluency
to ensure that all children can become fluent readers
Who should attend?
Schools should choose a Key Stage 2 reading fluency programme leader to attend the CPD. This could be a reading lead or an aspiring leader. The programme is designed for colleagues who are at the beginning of their work on reading fluency, or those who have begun this work but are keen to deepen their knowledge of the research and practices that underpin effective teaching of reading fluency at Key Stage 2. Maximum of 1 person per school.
The English Hub programme is offering a six-session course designed to develop teachers’ and leaders’ practical understanding of reading fluency. Across the modules, participants will explore the key components of fluent reading: from choosing the right texts, to building automaticity, prosody, vocabulary, and comprehension.
Module 1: What is reading fluency?
Module 2: Getting the text right
Module 3: Zoom in on automaticity building
Module 4: Zoom in on prosody
Module 5: Zoom in on vocabulary
Module 6: Zoom in on comprehension
Participants will be expected to attend all six sessions and complete gap tasks in between sessions. All sessions are free of charge and will be held at Lacey Green Conference Centre 1pm – 4pm.
Important information
All delegates must commit to attending all sessions.
Please ensure you have the support of your Headteacher before registering.
Schools must confirm that delegates can be released to attend and have the capacity to fully engage in the programme.
