KS3+ Phonics & Literacy Support for Secondary Schools 

Training programmes with age-appropriate classroom resources, designed to help struggling readers and writers in KS3 and beyond. 

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Why KS3+ Matters

Many students reach secondary school still struggling with reading and writing fluency. This impacts their confidence, behaviour, and access to the wider curriculum. 
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Secondary teachers often tell us they feel under-prepared to support these learners effectively. That's where Abigail Steel's KS3+ training and resource programmes come in - equipping teachers with the tools and strategies to make a difference.

Our Programmes

We offer two complementary training programmes, each with classroom resources carefully designed for older learners - including those with SEND and SEMH needs. 

KS3+ Phonics

• Practical training for teachers delivering phonics at secondary level
• ​Age-appropriate lesson materials designed for small groups or interventions
• Builds decoding, fluency, and spelling foundations

Learn more about KS3+ Phonics

KS3+ Reading Support

• Training and resources to boost comprehension, vocabulary, and reading confidence
• Suitable for students who can decode but still struggle with fluency and understanding
• ​Encourages independence and motivation in reading

Learn more about KS3+ reading support

Training Packages

We offer flexible training and support options to help you implement and embed the KS3+ Phonics and KS3+ Reading Support programmes effectively in your setting. 

Option 1: KS3+ Phonics Portal £325 per organisation

• Core KS3+ Training Videos (self-study to support staff delivering phonics interventions)
• Downloadable teaching materials: KS3+ Teacher Handbook and 3 Student Workbooks
  Print copies of the workbooks available on Amazon.
• 12-month portal access (share freely amongst staff)

Option 2: KS3+ Reading Support Portal £325 per organisation

• Reading Support Training Videos (self-study for staff)
• Decodable reading book lists and downloadable activity packs
• Works alongside the KS3+ Reading Support Book Packs
  Book bundles available separately via Peters Bookstore.
• 12-month portal access (share freely amongst staff)

Option 3: Personalised Webinar Training £495 + VAT (2 hours)

• Live online session (Zoom or Teams) for small or large groups
• Covers either KS3+ Phonics or KS3+ Reading Support
• Ideal as an introduction or to deepen knowledge
• Tailored to your setting’s needs
• Includes 12-month portal access (chosen programme)

Option 4: Comprehensive Webinar Bundle £990 + VAT

Two tailored 2-hour webinars. Choose any two topics:

• Core KS3+ Phonics Training
• KS3+ Reading Support Training
• Phonics & Literacy Leadership
• Programme Implementation Support
• Supporting Struggling Readers & Reading for Pleasure

• Includes 12-month portal access to both KS3+ Phonics and KS3+ Reading Support

Option 5: In-School Training Day £1,395 + VAT

• Full day of face-to-face training delivered by an experienced consultant
• Includes two sessions chosen from the topics above
• Bespoke needs can be discussed and accommodated
• Includes 12-month portal access to both KS3+ Phonics and KS3+ Reading Support
• Follow-up consultation available; discounts for additional pre-booked days

What Schools Gain

Our KS3+ programmes are designed to create real impact in classrooms. Teachers gain practical strategies they can use immediately. Students gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed across the curriculum.

• Clear structure and ready-to-use resources
• Approaches tailored for older learners
  
• Positive impact on behaviour and engagement
  
• Improved literacy outcomes and exam readiness
  
• ​Support for SEND and SEMH students
  

What Teachers Say

"The KS3+ training gave us the confidence to tackle phonics with Year 8 and 9 without it feeling babyish. Our students are more engaged than ever" 
- Intervention teacher

"The resources are a lifesaver - age-appropriate, clear and instantly useable." 
​- English teacher

"Our staff really enjoyed the training. Even experienced teachers gave feedback that they learned new strategies." 
​-Headteacher

Frequently Asked Questions

Is KS3+ validated by the Department for Education?

No. KS3+ is not a DfE validated programme because validation currently only applies to primary phonics schemes. However, KS3+ has been developed by Abigail Steel, author of the validated Rocket Phonics programme, and is designed specifically for secondary students.

Do we need to use Amazon to get the books?

No. All workbooks are included as downloadable PDFs in your package. Ordering via Amazon is only if you’d like printed copies. Alternatively, you can print your own from the downloads.

Can we mix and match packages?

Yes. Packages are designed to be flexible. Many schools start with portal access, then add webinars or an in-school training day as needed. Contact us if you’d like a tailored option.

How quickly can we access the training?

Immediately. Once payment is processed, your school receives logins for the online training portal. Webinars and in-school training can be scheduled at times that suit you.

Who are the training packages suitable for?

KS3+ is designed for teachers, TAs, literacy leads and SEND/SEMH specialists working with older students who need support with phonics, reading fluency or comprehension.

Do we need to buy both KS3+ Phonics and KS3+ Reading Support?

No. The two programmes can be used independently or together depending on your students’ needs. Some schools begin with phonics, then later add the reading support package for broader coverage.

Can the training be delivered to large groups of staff?

Yes. Webinar and in-school training options can be tailored for small intervention teams or delivered to whole-staff groups, depending on your requirements.

What if we need ongoing support?

Follow-up consultations are available, and discounts apply for pre-booked additional training days. We can also provide bespoke packages if your school has specific needs.

Do students find the resources age-appropriate?

Yes. KS3+ resources have been carefully designed to feel accessible and motivating for older learners, avoiding the “babyish” feel that often disengages secondary students.

What technology do we need for portal access?

All you need is an internet connection and a device capable of streaming training videos and downloading PDFs. Access can be shared freely across your staff team for 12 months.

Ready to Support Your KS3+ Learners?

Book training today or get in touch to discuss how the KS3+ Phonics and KS3+ Reading Support programmes can work in your school. 

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