Phonics Screening Check - Information for Parents

🔤✨ Phonics Screening Check 2026

In June 2026, all Year 1 children (and any Year 2 children who did not meet the expected standard in Year 1) will take part in the national Phonics Screening Check.

The check is a short, one-to-one activity with the class teacher 👩‍🏫. Children are asked to read 40 words — some are real words 📖 and some are “alien”/nonsense words 👽. This helps us see how well children can use their phonics skills to decode unfamiliar words.

🏫 How We Prepare in Holly Class

We teach daily phonics lessons using the Read Write Inc. (RWI) programme. Through RWI, children learn to:

• 🔡 Recognise sounds (Speed Sounds) quickly and confidently

• 🤝 Blend sounds together to read words

• 📚 Practise reading both “real words” and “alien words”

• 💪 Build fluency and confidence in their reading

By the time of the check, children are already very familiar with this style of activity, as it mirrors what we practise every day in class.

🏡 How You Can Help at Home

• 📖 Listen to your child read at least three times a week, and record it in their diary

• 🔊 Encourage pure sounds from RWI (e.g., m, a, s, d, t instead of “muh, ah, suh”)

• 🤓 Practise blending sounds to read new words

• 👽 Use the RWI “alien words” sent home to get used to decoding nonsense words

• 💻 Watch RWI parent videos (YouTube & Oxford Owl) to see phonics in action

💡 Reassurance for Families

The Phonics Screening Check is nothing to worry about 🙂. It is a calm, supportive activity designed to:

• ✅ Celebrate your child’s progress in reading

• 🔍 Identify areas where extra support may be helpful

Children may notice that this is a special activity, but it is presented in a relaxed way that feels very similar to the daily lessons they already enjoy. With daily RWI lessons in school and regular practice at home, children will be well prepared and confident 🌟.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pass mark?
📊 The pass mark is usually around 32 out of 40 words. The government sets the exact mark each year, and we will share it with you once confirmed.

What happens if my child does not pass in Year 1?
🔄 If your child does not meet the expected standard, they will continue to receive daily phonics support and re-take the check in Year 2. This ensures extra time and practice to secure reading skills.

How will I find out the results?
📩 You will receive your child’s result in their end-of-year report, along with details of continued reading support.