Menu
Download our brochure
The Power of Words: Evidence-Informed Reading and Writing in the Primary Classroom
At this year’s conference, we’re delighted to welcome Christopher Such—experienced teacher, respected researcher and author of ‘The Art and Science of Teaching Primary Reading’ and ‘Primary Reading Simplified’. Christopher’s session will focus on ‘What every teacher needs to know about reading’.
An astonishing wealth of relevant research exists on the subject of reading development. This is both a blessing and a curse. Navigating the evidence and using this to make better decisions in the classroom can be an overwhelming challenge for teachers and school leaders. This session is designed for anyone who wants to overcome this challenge and to better help all pupils become capable, confident readers. The session will address:
+ Frameworks for understanding reading
+ The nature of the English writing system and what this means for teaching word recognition
+ The importance of reading fluency and how it can be developed
+ The integrated bodies of knowledge behind language comprehension
+ Principles behind teaching reading comprehension in a meaningful fashion
The day will also showcase an excellent example of best practice in early writing development (EYFS), and Ruth will share a range of compelling children’s books designed to help pupils discover their reading preferences—and leave them begging to read more!
DATE: Thursday 12th February 2026
TIME: 09:30-15:30
VENUE: Holiday Inn Coventry M6, Hinckley Road, Coventry, CV2 2HP
COST: £230 per person
_______________________________________________________________
Schools who subscribe to the Gateway Alliance – ENGLISH subject leader network have 1 FREE place per school.
Costs will be incurred for additional places and for schools that do not subscribe. Please contact us for details.
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL
If you have any queries please don’t hesitate to contact us on 02476 347697 or email: info@gatewayalliance.co.uk
Christopher Such
Christopher Such is the author of ‘The Art and Science of Teaching Primary Reading’ and ‘Primary Reading Simplified’. He is an experienced teacher, school leader and consultant, who delivers professional development for schools, trusts and ITT providers on the subject of evidence-informed reading and curriculum development. He also works part-time as a member of Ambition Institute’s learning design team where he co-designed their NPQ in Leading Literacy.
Ruth Baker-Leask
Ruth Baker–Leask is an experienced consultant and former primary Head Teacher. Ruth has led successful English CPD for 20 years and supports schools, academy trusts and other organisations within the education sector. She is the former chair of the National Association of Advisers in English (NAAE) and, as such, works regularly with the country’s leading researchers and experts in Primary English. She is an associate consultant with the National Literacy Trust and has worked with the British Council in developing reading resources for Sub-Saharan Africa. Ruth is a United Kingdom Literacy Association Awards and Members Committee member. Ruth has a passion for children’s literature, teaching poetry and weird and wonderful words!
