This week I highlight an increase in the phonics check target for pupils reaching the expected standard and the introduction of a new Y8 reading test, as well as the launch of the DfE’s Best Start in Life campaign.

90% phonics check target and new Y8 reading test to be introduced
The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, announced at this week’s Confederation of School Trusts annual conference that there is a new target for 90% of pupils to reach the expected standard in the Y1 phonics screening check. Up from the current target of 84%, this new target forms part of a wider plan to improve literacy standards across all age groups. This includes a new mandatory reading test for all Y8 pupils to assess fluency and comprehension which will be introduced by the end of this Parliament. Designed as a snapshot of pupils’ reading ability, the test will not require pupils to revise and performance data will be shared only with Ofsted and the government, while schools will provide individual results directly to parents.

DfE launch early years campaign
This week the government launched the Best Start in Life campaign, aimed at helping parents navigate online misinformation about early childhood development. The initiative brings together NHS and government-backed guidance and is part of a wider government effort to improve early years support and outcomes.