What is Phonics?

Phonics is a method of teaching reading by developing learners’ phonemic awareness — the ability to hear, identify and manipulate sounds (phonemes) — in order to teach the relationship between sounds and the letters or groups of letters (graphemes) that represent them.

It involves:

• Recognising the sounds that letters make.
• Identifying the sounds that different combinations of letters make, such as sh or oo.
• Blending these sounds together to read words.

Phonics Screening Check

The Phonics Screening Check is a short assessment for Year 1 pupils in England, designed to confirm whether children have learnt phonic decoding to an appropriate standard. It helps teachers identify pupils who may need extra support with phonics.

When Will It Take Place?

The check will be administered during the week beginning Monday 8 June 2026 by Ms Khan. 

What Does the Check Involve?

• Your child will be asked to read 40 words aloud to a familiar teacher.
• The words include both real words and pseudo-words (nonsense words) to assess decoding skills.
• Pseudo-words are used to ensure children apply their phonics knowledge to unfamiliar words.
• Each word is worth one mark, with a total possible score of 40.

How Will I Receive the Results?

Your child’s results will be shared with you in their end-of-year report. If your child does not meet the expected standard, they will receive additional support and will retake the check in Year 2.

How Can I Support My Child?

• Read regularly with your child and encourage them to read aloud.
• Practise phonics at home using resources provided by the school or available online.
• Engage in activities that develop sound-letter recognition and blending skills.
• Speak to your child’s teacher for specific advice and resources.

Parent Information Meeting

We will also be holding a parent meeting where further information, guidance and support will be provided to help you support your child at home. Attendance at this meeting is important, and we strongly encourage all parents and carers to attend.

Parents may attend either meeting:

• North Site: 18 May at 9:10am
• South Site: 20 May at 9:00am

If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to Ms Khan or Ms Gemma.