Year 1 Phonics Screening Check
What is the Phonics Screening Check?
The phonics screening check is a short, statutory assessment for children in Year 1. It helps us to confirm that children are developing the phonics skills they need to read words confidently and are on track to become fluent readers who enjoy reading for pleasure.
For further information, parents can access guidance from the Department for Education.
phonics screening for info parents dfe.pdf
When does the phonics screening take place?
This year, the phonics screening check will take place during the week beginning Monday 8th June 2026.
Any children in Year 2 who did not meet the expected standard in Year 1 will also retake the check during this week.
What does the check involve?
The check consists of 40 words for children to read aloud. These include a mixture of:
- Real words
- Pseudo (or “alien”) words
Children are familiar with these “alien words” from their phonics lessons. These are made-up words designed to check that children can apply their phonics skills, rather than rely on memory.
Each child will complete the check one-to-one with a familiar adult in a quiet and supportive environment.
The words are presented in a booklet, with four words per page, and reflect the phonics sounds (graphemes) taught in Reception and Year 1. The pseudo words are accompanied by fun alien pictures to help children recognise them.
Will I receive my child’s results?
Yes. You will be informed of your child’s result in their end-of-year report.
The results help us identify any children who may need additional support with reading. In 2025, the expected standard was 32 out of 40 words.
If your child does not meet the expected standard, they will receive extra support in phonics and will have the opportunity to retake the check in Year 2.
Example materials
You can view an example of the phonics screening check below:
Phonics Screening Example