A SECONDARY school that saw “outstanding” results after bringing in a new reading scheme is preparing to take its work to the next level.

The Oxford Academy – whose students hail from Blackbird Leys, Littlemore and Rose Hill – launched the “Read Write Inc. Fresh Start” programme last year to boost some of its pupils’ reading abilities.

In the programme, students are taken back to the very basics of reading and writing with sound-based learning and comprehension in English classes.

In nine months, the average reading age of pupils from Years 7 and 8 jumped by 29 months and 32 months respectively.

The course was overseen by school staff member Anne Peters and delivered by teachers including SEN co-ordinator Caroline O’Connor.

Miss O’Connor said: “We have had outstanding results. We thought it would be successful but we were really pleased with just how successful it was.”

Among those involved last year was Niamh Patty, 13, whose reading age jumped by five years and five months. She said: “It has helped me with my reading and writing. Now I put my hand up and answer questions.”

Following the first year, Oxford Academy was made a Badge School – an institution that has notably raised its reading and writing standards – by Ruth Miskin Training, the company that designed the programme.

Miss O’Connor added: “This year we are hoping to become the first-ever ‘model’ secondary school. You need to show that the progress from the first year is continuing.”

Some of the participants have special educational needs. Others do not read at home or struggled with the jump from primary to secondary level texts.

Miss O’Connor said: “We need to make sure that the children can access the secondary school curriculum. If they’re not at a reading age that helps them they will struggle in all their lessons.

“The numbers are just figures. It’s about the confidence and their ability to access lessons.

“Teachers across the board have noticed the impact. You can see the pupils carrying themselves taller.”

Following the first year using the scheme, one parent of a child in Year 7 wrote to the school and said: “My child has flourished with the teaching and nurturing from staff. I’m truly grateful.”