What Does A Literacy Leader Do?

Number 1 item on my list of 'Ten Things That Successful Phonics Schools Do' is:

1. They have a Literacy leader/champion

Some schools call this role the 'Phonics Lead' but I like to use the term 'Literacy' because for me, phonics = basic literacy knowledge and skills. It's the foundations that, well, everything else, is built upon. 

Appointing a designated leader is not only a sensible and practical measure but it also demonstrates that phonics is being recognised as important in your school. 

What does the Literacy leader do?

• Develops, annually reviews and updates school policies relating to phonics, spelling, handwriting and reading 
• Annually audits resources 
• Annually audits staff training and support needs 
• Liaise with external consultant/training provider to plan and implement support 
• Recommends training opportunities including events, books and websites 
• Monitors consistent and effective use of displays 
• Motivates and inspires staff, children and parents 
• Collates and interprets assessment and tracking data 
• Ensures staff are assessing, tracking and monitoring children's progress at least every half term 
• Asks staff to describe their children's progress and identify barriers 
• Offer troubleshooting advice to staff 
• Keep up-to-date with industry information, latest research, publications and events 
• Team teaches, coaches and models lessons 
• Organises or supports staff with events such as parent workshops 
• Liaises with the English leader on overlap areas such as Reading for Pleasure