At Field View Primary School, we believe that learning to read is one of the most important skills a child can develop. Through our Read Write Inc. (RWI) phonics programme, children build the knowledge and confidence to recognise sounds, blend them together and read words independently.

The Phonics Screening Check is a statutory assessment completed by children in Year 1. It is designed to check whether children can use their phonics knowledge to read words accurately and identify those who may need additional support.

What Does the Check Involve?

The check takes place in June and is completed individually with a familiar member of school staff.

• Children read 40 words, divided into two sections.
• The check includes a mixture of real words and alien words (made-up words).
• Alien words help assess children’s ability to use their phonics knowledge to decode unfamiliar words.
• The check usually takes around 5–10 minutes.
• Children complete the check in a quiet, supportive environment.

There is no need for children to feel worried about the check. We prepare them through their regular phonics lessons and aim to make the experience positive and familiar.

What Happens After the Check?

Parents and carers will be informed of their child’s results by the end of the summer term.

If a child does not meet the expected standard, they will continue to receive phonics support and will complete the check again in Year 2.

Our priority is to ensure that every child develops the phonics knowledge and confidence they need to become a successful reader.

How Can You Help at Home?

Regular reading and phonics practice at home can make a big difference to children’s confidence and progress.

We encourage families to:

• Listen to their child read their Read Write Inc. book regularly.
• Practise recognising sounds and blending them to read words.
• Encourage children to sound out unfamiliar words rather than guessing.
• Share stories and books together to develop a love of reading.
• Celebrate their child’s effort and progress.

A few minutes of enjoyable reading practice each day can help children become more fluent and confident readers.