Applying the Science of Reading in Primary Classrooms: Evidence-Informed Strategies for ECTs

Target audience:  Primary Early Career Teachers

ECTs registered with the EA for the academic year 2025-2026 will have received an access code to enable them to apply for this event.  

About this event

Applying the Science of Reading in Primary Classrooms: Evidence-Informed Strategies for Early Career Teachers facilitated by Geraldine Magennis-Clarke

This interactive Science of Reading day is designed to support Early Career Teachers in understanding and applying evidence-based approaches to reading instruction.  The session will explore the key components of the science of reading, practical strategies for developing phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension and ways to create a language-rich classroom environment.  The event will also highlight how effective reading instruction supports the Northern Ireland Curriculum and contributes to professional growth during Induction and EPD.

Objectives

• ​Understand the core principles of the science of reading and their importance in supporting pupil progress in literacy.
• Identify and apply practical strategies for teaching phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension in primary classrooms.
• Explore ways to integrate reading instruction across the curriculum, making connections with writing, oral language, and digital literacy.
• Develop confidence in using assessment to inform reading instruction and support individual pupil needs.
• Recognise approaches to differentiate reading activities to meet diverse learning needs and promote inclusion.
• Reflect on their own classroom practice and plan for the implementation of science of reading strategies aligned with the Northern Ireland Curriculum and GTCNI competences.

Time

9.30 am - 3.30 pm

This in-person professional development opportunity is available on two different dates and locations.  You need only select one date from the options available.

Substitute cover is available for the release of ECTs working in schools (excludes Independent Schools).  Monies in relation to sub cover will be issued to schools after teacher has attended event.  Schools advised to code to Miscellaneous School Charge/Cost on NISTR.  Special Schools Only:  Please code to EA-V In-service training (quoting EA ECT event) on NISTR.

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly when registering.

Event Closing Dates:  One week before the date of each event listed.

This professional learning opportunity aims to support the development of the following GTCNI competences:

GTCNI Competence No 3

Teachers will have developed a knowledge and understanding of the learning area/subject(s) they teach, including the centrality of strategies and initiatives to improve literacy, numeracy and thinking skills, keeping curricular, subject and pedagogical knowledge up-to-date through reflection, self-study and collaboration with colleagues.

GTCNI Competence No 4

Teachers will have developed a knowledge and understanding of how the learning area/subject(s) they teach contribute to the Northern Ireland Curriculum and be aware of curriculum requirements in preceding and subsequent key stages.

GTCNI Competence No 5

Teachers will have developed a knowledge and understanding of curriculum development processes, including planning, implementation and evaluation.

GTCNI Competence No 6

Teachers will have developed a knowledge and understanding of the factors that promote and hinder effective learning, and be aware of the need to provide for the holistic development of the child.