CUSP Reading is grounded in evidence-informed practice, giving teachers confidence that the approaches they use are both effective and impactful. The curriculum is built on three key pillars: explicit vocabulary instruction, structured fluency development (including prosodic reading), and rich opportunities for deep thinking. Each unit is carefully sequenced to support progression, immersing pupils in thoughtfully selected, high-quality texts that challenge and inspire.

Throughout their primary journey, pupils experience a broad and ambitious range of literature, including the study of complete extended texts. This ensures both depth and breadth in reading, while developing enduring knowledge and understanding. Consistent lesson routines and clear progression support teachers in building pupils’ skills incrementally, both in the complexity of texts and in the sophistication of their responses.

CUSP Reading brings together what we know about effective reading instruction into a coherent, supportive framework, empowering teachers to deliver a rich and ambitious reading curriculum for every pupil.

Benefits for teachers:

• Provides a clear, structured curriculum built on evidence-informed practice
• Reduces planning workload with carefully sequenced units and high-quality texts
• Supports consistent teaching approaches across classes and schools
• Builds confidence in delivering vocabulary, fluency and comprehension instruction
• Enables clear progression and effective assessment of pupil development
• Ensures all pupils access a rich, ambitious and inclusive reading curriculum