Teaching of braille reading and writing is not part of the Literacy Hour - this takes place during another part of the day. The children are also given braille paper and braillers for their work, rather than being encouraged to be independent as the specific emphasis is literacy rather than independence. This time is intended for leisure reading, not curriculum materials, and pupils are encouraged to bring texts of their own choice. This includes books, magazines, computer text, read-along tapes and so on. Pupils have the freedom to bring texts from home or take advantage of the new Library Resource Centre.
Texts come in all formats and the pupils are guided to choose appropriately.
Pupils with reading difficulties are encouraged to seek additional support through the availability of differentiated texts. This aims to make the children independent readers, who can make informed choices. Staff participate by bringing their own books, acting as role models for the children. There is no pressure but staff are on hand to give assistance or hear a pupil read aloud if that is requested by the pupil. Pupils may join NLB through the website, browse and chat online to other children about the books they are reading.