How good are Y3 pupils’ phonics skills?

In February this year, the results of a pilot study undertaken by the UK’s National Foundation for Educational Research were published.  300 randomly selected schools trialled materials for a Year 3 Phonics Screening Check pilot.  The pupils who took part in the trial were Year 3 pupils who had not met the required standard by the end of Year 2.  The study found that 51% of all the pupils taking part met the required standard. 39% of pupils with special educational needs support or statement met the expected standard, compared to 65% of pupils with no special educational needs.  Certainly food for thought.  See the whole report.