Starting strong: leading reading into September led by Alice Smith

Get ready for the year ahead with this focused session designed to support reading leaders and their teams in preparing for a smooth, purposeful start to September 2027. This session will explore the key actions that need to be in place by the end of the summer term to ensure reading provision is consistent, high-quality, and impactful from day one.
During the session, participants will:
Identify the essential priorities for reading leaders to secure before the end of term
Ensure systems, structures, and expectations are clearly established across the school
Prepare staff through effective communication, training, and shared understanding of reading approaches
Review and organise resources, reading spines, and timetables to ensure immediate readiness in September
Plan for early assessment and swift identification of pupil needs, enabling timely support and intervention
Consider how to maintain momentum and consistency in reading practice from the very first week back
This session will emphasise the importance of strategic leadership and
proactive planning, helping schools avoid a slow start and instead launch the academic year with clarity, confidence, and strong reading provision in place.
Ideal for reading leaders, English leads, and Senior Leaders, this session will provide practical guidance and a clear roadmap to ensure that September starts strong—and stays strong—for every pupil.