A FORMER teacher is putting her skills in to practice after taking on a new venture.

Louise Hallam, 41, of Highwoods, has packed up her desk after 16 years of schools to help teach phonics to kids.

The mum-of-two has launched five new Sounds Right Phonics Classes for Kids.

The classes are specifically designed to get preschoolers and toddlers interested in reading and writing from an early age.

They will take place at St John’s Community Centre, Brantham Village Hall, Lambe School in East Bergholt, the Assembly Rooms Dedham and Trinity Methodist Church in Elmstead Market.

Louise worked as a teacher at Holy Trinity Primary School in Halstead for five years and is now a supply teacher at the school after the birth of her second daughter.

She said: "When I was 23 I realised that helping children learn was what I wanted to do in life.

"I am now 41 and after 16 years of teaching in primary schools I feel just as passionately about this as ever.

"The enthusiasm and curiosity of young children never ceases to amaze me and make me smile.

"I think Sounds Right Phonics Classes for kids are a brilliant way to introduce letters and sounds to children and help prepare them for school.”

The classes are part of a UK wide syllabus, founded in 2016 by Essex sisters, Charlie Day and Alex Burnside.

The classes, which are suitable for ages one to five, introduce a different letter sound each week.

They work on fine and gross motor skills which are essential for reading and writing as well as oral blending and segmenting, while opening children up to a world of literacy.

Louise added: "Young children learn so much through play.

"I have already held several taster sessions in preschools and toddler groups and the children have been completely engaged and motivated."

The first class takes place on Tuesday **APRIL 23** at St John’s Community Centre in St John's Close.

To find out more visit www.soundsrightphonicsclasses.co.uk or email louise@soundsrightphonicsclasses.co.uk