As well as showcases, our English Hub hosts other free events including workshops, webinars, and training to support schools to develop their practice in accordance with the three main priorities of the English Hub Programme, which are to promote:

• the effective teaching of synthetic systematic phonics and early reading;
• early language development; and
• a love of reading.

THE PROGRAMME EXPLAINED

Initial Engagement and Light Touch Support

The first step to engaging with our Hub is by completing the online expression of interest form, and attending one of our free showcase events.  These are in-school workshops designed to promote and share best practice in relation to the teaching of phonics and early reading, reading for pleasure, and early language.

At one of our inspirational showcase events:

• you will see best practice in phonics and early reading;
• you will receive expert guidance on ways that your school can nurture and develop a love of reading;
• we will draw on key DfE documents that underpin the importance of effective phonics and early reading practice;
• we will clarify the requirements of adopting a validated SSP programme;
• you will learn about the whole English Hub support offer; and
• you will discover whether your school would be eligible for further support and funding.

Any school can attend.  There are two places available per school, one compulsory for the headteacher, the other  recommended for the reading/phonics leader. 

Some schools may be eligible to receive a payment towards supply cover.  Please contact us for further details.

Medium Level Support

Following attendance at a showcase, the medium level support that the English Hub can offer includes:

• Working collaboratively with schools to develop an action plan for improving teaching of early language and reading.
• Undertaking detailed in-school audits.  These provide an opportunity for the Hub to spend time in a school and work closely with the headteacher and staff to fully understand current practice and identify areas for development.
• Financial support to buy resources and training identified in self-assessment/audit.
• Training delivered by experts to support the aims of the Hub.
• Regular information and guidance on excellent practice in phonics and reading.

Intensive Support

Each year, Hubs select partner schools to receive intensive support.  The Hubs have expert practitioner literacy specialists who have received high quality training to deliver this package.  The impact of this support is measured through specified key performance indicators.  The DfE has developed criteria for priority schools eligible for the most intensive support.