Empowering Early Literacy: Science of Reading, UFLI & AI Tools - Inclusive, Play-Based and Evidence-Informed Teaching

 

 

 

Facilitators, Fiona Jennings and Elaine Fitzgerald are active classroom teachers who bring real, up-to-date experience, not just theory. They understand daily challenges and will be available throughout the UFLI Summer Course to offer practical advice and answer your questions. They will

• Explore playful, purposeful strategies to enhance oral language and literacy learning for all children, including those with additional needs. 

• Engage in co-teaching approaches using the Heggerty Programme and UFLI to support early reading instruction. 

• Apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to create inclusive, differentiated classroom experiences. 

• Deepen their understanding of fine and gross motor development as foundations for writing. 

• Discover and evaluate AI and digital tools (e.g. MagicSchool, ChatGPT, ProjectRead.ai) to personalize teaching and enhance assessment. 
• Create setting-specific literacy plans informed by the Primary Language Curriculum, child-led play, and effective assessment strategies. 

The course blends live interactive sessions, breakout discussions, and self-paced tasks including video tutorials, practical activities, and reflection exercises—supporting teachers to confidently design inclusive, engaging literacy instruction for the year ahead.