When Rachel first began primary one, we were told that as her school were using the enriched curriculum method of teaching they would not be formally learning to read and write until at least primary two. However we were assured that if our children expressed an interest in ay of these skills they would be encouraged.

The enriched curriculum seems to focus very much on learning through play and on phonics as an introduction to early reading. I was surprised when Rachels teacher said that she was ready to start taking home reading books for herself and even more surprised when she quickly moved up to the next level. However this method of learning seems to work better than I could have ever hoped.

Rachel enjoys reading and makes a game out of sounding out the words. The songs and ryhmes which she learned for each letter have helped her to associate the letters with their sounds and now reading is beginning to come very naturally to her.

I was dubious when I first heard about the enriched curriculum method of teaching, but when I compare Rachel’s progress with some others of her age, she is at the same if not a more advanced level, yet she hasn’t had to learn dozens of spellings every week and actually has a real enthusiasm for school and for literacy.