Our Story

Maria Jiggins, Author and Developer
 Springboard Phonics

As a primary school teacher, the responsibility of getting children to read is at the heart of everything  I do, for being able to read is the bridge;  it provides the key to unlock all future knowledge.  

I have always been passionate about reading and love how it inspires and captures imagnations through the power of words and images.

Deciding where to start and how to support, track and progress children's reading became an immediate challenge for me... Which programme to choose? Does it come with linking books? Are the books engaging enough? In which order do I teach the sounds? How will I ensure all phonics sounds are covered?

These questions continued to make me think about the challenge  it often presented to parents and teachers alike and I wanted to find a clear and comprehensive solution.

I was extremely aware that children needed a 'hook' to get them enthusiastic about reading, which at such an early stage, needed to be both visually stimulating whilst drawing a connection to the words on the page.

After researching different methods of phonics teaching, whilst consulting the National Curriculum, I was able to explore finding a solution which I believed would provide comprehensive reading support for children. Where better to start than how parents and children start naturally? ... the order of the alphabet!  I also wanted children to get excited and interested in reading as early as possible, and to make it easily accessible - whatever their ability or background. 

I began working with established illustrator and artist, Maurice Rapallini, who brought Springboard Phonics to life, captivating the children's imaginations through central, relatable characters, Max and Saffy. These spirited characters have inspired children to read for pleasure and enjoyment, as well as learning to read using their progressive phonics knowledge. 

Creating Springboard Phonics has been an evolving labour of love and passion and after trialling the first collection of books and the underpinning Springboard Phonics Chart, the positive impact it has had on children's reading progress has shown its success! 

I hope you and your child will love learning to read through Springboard Phonics and share my passion for giving children the gift of being able to read.