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NUT: Evaluation of the Phonics Screening Check: First Interim Report

NUT: Evaluation of the Phonics Screening Check: First Interim Report

Commenting on the report commissioned by the Department for Education and undertaken by the National Foundation for Educational Research, Christine Blower, General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers, the largest teachers’ union, said:

“This report will make for very uncomfortable reading by Michael Gove as it has very little to say that is positive about the Phonics Check. The NUT agrees with many of the findings, in particular the key conclusions that schools believe the check provides no new information on pupils’ ability and that phonics should be used alongside other methods in the teaching of reading. This is indeed what happens now.

“The majority of teachers said that the check would have little or no impact on the standard of reading and writing in their schools. Equally damning was the verdict from literacy coordinators that the check did not provide valuable information for teachers, while many Year 1 teachers believed that the check was unsuitable for high ability pupils, those with SEN or English as an additional language.

“This evaluation of the phonics check shows clearly why Michael Gove should really listen to the profession. The phonics check is clearly a waste of money. The Education Secretary needs to practice as he continually preaches and let schools make their own decisions about teaching and learning and stop this incessant meddling.”

                                                            END                                       pr96-2013
For further information contact Caroline Cowie on 0207 380 4706 or 07879480061