Flying High English Hub
How we work
English Hubs are primary schools that excel in early language and literacy teaching. We aim to support schools in achieving excellence in early literacy teaching through the initial focus of:
- Developing early language and closing the word gap
- Developing early reading through systematic synthetic phonics
- Promoting a love of reading
Our English Hub
Supports eligible schools to deliver excellent language and phonics teaching in reception and Key Stage 1 through the following:
- Attend a showcase event where we share our approach to the support we offer, enabling you to discuss your school’s priorities and begin to establish networks with colleagues.
- Funding is available to support up to two members of staff from your school to attend a showcase event.
- An audit of your current early language and reading provision following the submission of a completed action plan which will set out your plans for improvement and any resource required.
- 6 days’ of in school support delivered by our appointed Literacy Specialist Leaders for schools with the greatest need.
- Funding to support the delivery of the project and purchase of resources for schools with the greatest need.
The English Hub Team
Carl Pattison
Strategic Hub Lead
Experienced leader and early literacy specialist: 6+ years as a Head, now specialising in Early Literacy and Reading for Pleasure. Committed to supporting schools in meeting the reading challenge.
Katy Armstrong
Hub Lead
Over the last 17 years, I have had the privilege of teaching children in both KS1 and KS2 and have developed my passion for all things English but particularly reading.
Michaela Devonport
Hub Co-Ordinator
With a keen eye for detail, supporting the Hub’s administration and finance, contributing to its success and impact.
Cara MacFadyean
Literacy Specialist
Passionate teacher & Reading Lead: 18 years shaping young minds currently at Hillside Primary.
Cath Wilkes
Literacy Specialist
Highly experienced Primary Teacher (over 25 years). Championing early reading across schools. Collaborates with leaders, develops systems, and serves as English Lead Practitioner for Flying High Partnership.
Amie Shaw
Literacy Specialist
Experienced EYFS/KS1 teacher, now Asst. Head & phonics lead at Carlton Infant Academy and Redhill Trust Phonics Director. Passionate about developing confident young readers.
Bea Horridge
Literacy Specialist
Bluecoat Y1 Teacher & Reading Lead (since 2017). Passionate about making every child a fluent reader. Introduced Little Wandle across my Trust and seeing fantastic results has been rewarding.
Gemma Gough
Literacy Specialist
Experienced KS1/EYFS teacher (17 years). Leader of Phonics and Early Reading at Greenwood Primary & Nursery School. Passionate about building confident readers & fostering a love of reading.
Rachel Jones
Literacy Specialist
Milford Primary Teacher (since 2005). Leading KS1 English & RE. Passionate about nurturing confident readers.
Suzie Jones
Literacy Specialist
Literacy Specialist & Lead Teacher with 13 years’ Primary experience (focus on EYFS/KS1). Passionate about phonics, early reading, and fostering confident readers. Phonics Lead for Flying High Partnership and Brooklands Primary School.
Clare Hallam
Literacy Specialist
23-year experienced teacher, passionate about KS1 & phonics. Currently, KS1 Phase Leader at Djanogly Strelley, focused on building reading confidence & love of stories.
Ali Elkington
Literacy Specialist
Experienced EYFS/KS1 teacher (20yrs). Early phonics and reading/EYFS lead at Butler’s Hill Infant and Nursery currently teaching in Reception. Passionate about reading for pleasure and giving children the knowledge and skills to access the world of books.
Emma Spiers
Literacy Specialist
How to request support
Any school can request support from the Flying High English Hub by completing a Self Referral Form or you can be referred directly by the DfE or a National Leader of Education.