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Support Reading at Home
Reading together at home, whether through books, stories, or everyday texts, plays a vital role in building a child’s vocabulary, imagination, and understanding of the world.
At Nexus, we’re committed to working with you to strengthen the reading skills your child is developing in school. Together, we can give our young people the best possible foundation to become confident, successful readers.
1. Reading is everywhere!
Don’t worry too much about what or how your child reads each day. Books are wonderful, but so are leaflets, comics, recipes, or instructions on a webpage. Even following a recipe to bake cupcakes is valuable reading practice. Keep an eye out for reading opportunities wherever you go!
2. Make it interactive.
Reading together is about reading with, not just reading to. Ask open-ended “Wh” questions — Who? What? When? Where? Why? — to spark curiosity and discussion. For example: “What do you think Harry is feeling?” These conversations help deepen understanding and engagement.
3. Build reading into your daily routine.
Find a regular time each day to share stories so your child knows it’s part of their routine — perhaps before bedtime or after dinner. Consistency helps make reading an enjoyable habit.
4. Follow their interests.
While your child will bring home books linked to their reading phase or book band, it’s equally important to let them explore books they choose themselves. Our library offers a range of options so pupils can select something that excites them — keeping motivation and enjoyment high.
5. Use technology wisely.
Research from the National Literacy Trust shows that, when used with adult guidance, technology can be a great tool for developing reading skills. Try listening to audiobooks or watching story readings online — YouTube has excellent adaptations. At Nexus, we’re also building a bank of stories read and signed by our staff to support all learners.
We’ve created Home Reading Packs to help make reading at home simple and rewarding. Each pack includes:
- An overview of reading at home
- Question prompts to support discussion
- A book (or books) of your child’s choice
- A reading bookmark to record progress
When your child’s bookmark is full, they’ll earn a raffle ticket for a chance to win a prize from our reading reward vending machine at the end of term!
Online Platforms
We use Reading Eggs and Lexia in school for some of our pupils to reinforce their reading skills. Your child’s class teacher will be able to provide you with login details.
Need Support?
If you have any questions or would like additional guidance on reading at home, please contact your child’s Class Teacher — we’re always here to help.
Ellis Coles
Graduated in 2025
I go to the oaks college and really am enjoying. I am in a class with a couple of old friends from nexus.
Rose Aspinall
Graduated July 2025
I am at The Oaks working towards my functional Maths and English and also doing lots of work experience.
Dan Smith
Graduated in 2026
I am off to Grow 19 to study hospitality. My favourite memories of Nexus are the DofE residentials - especially the boat to the Isle of Wight! Thank you to all the staff who organised and ran the adventure.
Ava Donnely
Graduated in 2026
Hi there my name is Ava Donnelly. I have attended Nexus for over 6 years now. I'm about to move on to the Grow 19 college where I will be studying in Hospitality. I love to cook and am really looking forward to my next adventure. I will miss everything about Nexus, where I have felt safe and a part of the Nexus family. I will have the best memories of amazing friends and my teachers and especially the camping
Edie Dean
Graduated in 2026
I will be going to The Mount Camphill. My favourite memory is time with Vicky the Drama Teacher, it’s been a big journey together, fun, confidence and true memories and friendship have been made.
Finty Dean
Graduated in 2026
I will be going to The Mount Camphill. I have enjoyed having Jo as my teacher she has been helpful to me. I have enjoyed going on the school bus into town to be in the church cafe, and I have liked free time on the round swing outside.