Nessy

Nessy

Nessy is an all-around reading program for children of primary school age. Based on structured, game-based activities to suit both home education and schools, the programs are specifically aimed at improving reading and spelling skills for children of all abilities. Designed for children of all abilities, Nessy’s curriculum follows the Science of Reading, making sure the programs are effective and engaging for the students.

Nessy screenshot

Nessy for Home Education

Nessy offers an effective solution for parents who want to supplement their child’s literacy skills or for those choosing to educate at home. The program breaks down learning processes into manageable steps, which makes it ideal for children—dyslexic ones, in particular—with an interactive format in games that will ensure learning stays fun.

It’s also suitable for home learning curriculums with Nessy’s Reading and Spelling program for 6-11-year-olds and a Writing Beach program for 7-14-year-olds. There is also a new ‘go hairy’ program for younger children. The reading and spelling program is started with a detailed assessment called Challenge Placement, which pinpoints exactly where the child should start. The assessment ensures that each child gets targeted practice in the areas they need most, hence making the learning process efficient and tailor-made.

For spelling, the program does allow for flexibility. In fact, parents can hand-place their child at an appropriate level to avoid frustration and ensure that it stays positive. The Writing Beach Program daily covers all the essential grammar and writing skills through 100 detailed lessons spread across ten thematic islands, keeping the process of learning dynamic and varied.

Nessy for Schools

Schools find Nessy to be very useful in rapidly improving the literacy outcomes of their students. These award-winning resources, designed to cater to the diverse needs of all students, are available online and therefore equally useful for remote and in-class learning environments. The structured literacy approach in the program supports whole-class teaching and individual students who may need extra help—especially those with dyslexia.

Nessy works with top academics to ensure that its programs are based upon proven research for effectiveness and that the methods being used are current. This collaboration ensures that Nessy’s resources in phonics, maths, typing, and early reading instruction are informed by the best educational science.

Schools can also fall back on the extensive library of resources from Nessy that comprises printable worksheets, strategy guides, and mnemonic materials. Detailed student reporting enables accurate tracking of progress and assists educators and parents in tailoring instruction to each child’s needs.

Additional Features and Resources

Nessy also has their own dyslexia screening called the Dyslexia Quest Screener, which conforms to the six scientifically based areas of assessment, and ‘board certified doctors’ administer it for a fee. A free early dyslexia test can be found on the Nessy webpage, where teachers and home educators can also get a lot of information if they feel they need more.

Nessy is touting the type program Nessy Fingers with this recommendation for the holiday break so kids don’t forget to learn. Go Hairy is the new YouTube Channel designed to help even younger students with their learning; it provides educational videos that make learning fun.

Nessy’s curriculum places emphasis on reading, spelling, and grammar within the context of all learners, not just learners with dyslexia. The program was designed on the basis of how children with dyslexia learn how to read and write, resulting in a comprehensive, supportive learning area.

Implementation and Customization

Setting up a Nessy account is very easy. Parents and teachers are able to log in to track progress and set their own targets. The platform allows for multiple student profiles, so it’s not a problem to track the progress of each of them and update the targets. Students’ profiles can be created and tailored to each child’s use in a manner most suitable to their learning style or needs.

Nessy will integrate painlessly into classroom or home routines. Teachers can use Nessy to bolster literacy programs, as consolidation to support students who struggle or as an enrichment activity. At home, parents can use Nessy as part of a daily routine to ensure regular practice with areas of literacy that require improvement.

How to Monitor Progress

Detailed reporting in Nessy allows parents and teachers to monitor children’s progress, know when to progress, and when to practice a little more. Progress certificates can also be printed off.

Our Verdict

The content of Nessy is supported by research and evidence from educators. Trials have proven that children who have used Nessy have improved reading and spelling abilities, including those with dyslexia. With its gamelike appearance, detailed assessments, and customizable learning, it is a good option for those students who need extra help and interventions in literacy. Nessy offers both structured and fun experiences at home and in the classroom for learners of all abilities.

Buy the Nessy app on your mobile device, or visit the Nessy website.

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About Joanna Nance-Phillips

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Children's literature maven and primary teacher. 30+ years of experience running a primary school library, teaching literacy and tutoring in the UK and abroad.

This resource was last updated on August 18th, 2024 and first published in 2024.