Literacy Strategy

Leeds City Academy is committed to delivering a vibrant and engaging curriculum which produces the highest possible outcomes for each and every child.

Reading and Literacy Strategy 2023-2025

We are a Reading Academy

At Leeds City Academy we think that reading, and in particular reading for pleasure, is one of the most important factors in allowing children to reach their full potential. A love of literature and a genuine desire to read opens doors to students that remain closed for reluctant readers, no matter how strong their ability. In order to support the drive to engage students with reading for enjoyment, the academy offers a range of activities and experiences linked to reading for pleasure.

The school celebrates National Poetry Day each year with a focus on poetry in English lessons that is further reinforced by activities in coaching sessions. The English department also welcomes visiting authors into the academy to work with students of all ages and abilities on reading and creative writing skills. The academy has invested in a writers in residence programme called ‘First Story’. A term long programme has been already been completed and students involved in this visited Oxford University for a festival event recently. Staff and writers are starting the year long programme now which will culminate in a book launch in the summer term.

'Of course, a love of reading is fostered within the curriculum through immersive study in engaging materials throughout Key Stage 3. We also subscribe to the internationally renowned Lexia software program that has proven results in achieving rapid progress in student's literacy. Students have access to the software package every fortnight within lessons, as well as unlimited access in their own time. Lexia is an engaging package that not only allows students the opportunity to develop their proficiency in English but also enables them to become more confident and fulfilled readers.

Students who need it also gain extra support through our Level-Up Project, which provides additional lessons in the holidays as well as one to one and small group tuition during the school term.

All students have access to well-resourced Library, which is at the centre of reading in the academy. The library has a series of activities scheduled to raise reading enjoyment throughout the year, the poetry slam organised in collaboration with our other academies, was a big hit with students last year. The librarian, also works closely with area teams to provide book boxes and create subject themed weeks where appropriate.