With Jaz Ampaw-Farr and Marilyn Brocklehurst
Our Pre-Prep parents enjoyed an informative and entertaining English Morning at St John’s with talks from our teachers about the development of reading and early English skills at school. The parents also had an inspirational and energetic talk from synthetic phonics ‘guru’ Jaz Ampaw-Farr, as well as a passionate talk about reading to children from Marilyn Brocklehurst.
Jaz Ampaw-Farr is a synthetic phonics expert and has a wealth of experience in helping children to secure early reading and writing skills. One parent commented, “She spoke with real conviction and her energy and enthusiasm for her subject is really infectious.” Jaz shared practical tips to support the school’s teaching of synthetic phonics. She explained that the sounds are introduced quickly and the children use them in their reading and writing which empowers them and creates a ‘can do’ attitude.
Marilyn Brocklehurst, from the Norfolk Children’s Book Centre, provided useful guidance for parents on practical approaches to encourage children to read and recommended reading material to give children a love of the written word. Mrs Debs White, Head of the Junior Department commented, “Our Kindergarten English morning was such a success. Both of our visitors spoke with great knowledge and expertise and incredible amounts of enthusiasm! It was a very valuable reminder of the complex journey our children make to become passionate readers.”