What is the Phonics Screening Check?

• A word-reading check taken during the week commencing Monday 9th June 2025
• Children read 40 words – 20 real words and 20 nonsense words, either by sight or using RWI strategies.
• The check takes no more than 10 minutes and is done on a 1:1 basis.
• The threshold is usually 32 words read correctly.
• If they do not manage to read 32 of the words, they are given extra support, and repeat the check at the end of Year 2.
• The aim is that all children will be able to read accurately before they begin Year 3.

How are the results used?

• Results from the check will be used by schools to analyse their own performance and for Ofsted to use in inspections.
• Teachers will gain a better understanding of who needs support with decoding/blending.
• Parents will have an understanding of whether their child is on track with their reading skills (results will be shared with parents in end of year reports).
• Passing the Check does not automatically mean they finish the RWI scheme. If we feel they need some more time to embed their RWI skills and reading speed, children will be kept on the scheme.

Click on the attached resources for more information.