Literacy at LJFS
Literacy at Leeds Jewish Free School
At Leeds Jewish Free School, we believe that literacy is the key that unlocks success in every subject and every stage of life. Whether students are analysing a source in History, interpreting data in Science, solving problems in Mathematics, or exploring Jewish texts in Jewish Studies, strong literacy skills enable them to think deeply, communicate confidently and achieve their full potential.
We are passionate about developing students' academic language and vocabulary across the curriculum. Each subject has its own specialist terminology, and we explicitly teach the foundational language that students need to access, understand and excel in their learning. Key words and subject-specific vocabulary are carefully planned, taught and revisited, enabling students to build confidence and fluency over time. Teachers regularly use strategies such as vocabulary instruction, modelling, discussion and retrieval practice to ensure that new language becomes embedded in long-term memory.
To support all learners, we also make use of pre-teaching, introducing important concepts and vocabulary before they are encountered in lessons. This approach helps students feel prepared, confident and ready to engage with challenging content. By removing barriers to learning and strengthening students' understanding of language, we enable every child to participate fully in classroom discussions and achieve academic success.
Reading lies at the heart of our literacy provision. Our small but beautifully stocked library offers an inviting space where students can discover new authors, explore different genres and develop a lifelong love of reading. From contemporary fiction and classic literature to non-fiction, biography and Jewish texts, our collection has been carefully selected to inspire curiosity, imagination and intellectual growth. We encourage all students to read widely and often, recognising that regular reading not only improves literacy skills but also broadens knowledge, empathy and understanding of the world.
Through a shared commitment to reading, vocabulary development and effective communication, we strive to create a culture where language is celebrated, learning is accessible to all, and every student leaves LJFS as a confident reader, articulate speaker and successful learner.
Some useful links to websites
https://www.booktrust.org.uk/books-and-reading/our-recommendations
https://schoolreadinglist.co.uk/category/secondary-ks3-ks4-reading-lists
