Published research shows that English speakers gain literacy skills up to the 7-year level more effectively when taught using a language experience approach rather than a word reading approach (reading common words plus phonic reading). It is suggested that this is because of the almost unique nature of English phonology, that is the strengthening…

In Wales the national curriculum programmes of study for key stages 1 to 4 are broadly similar to those of England, as is the current statutory assessment system, although pupils at key stage 1 no longer take national tests in science. At key stage 1, pupils' work is assessed by their teachers to provide an end-of-key-stage level. The statutory…