Early learning experts host cross-county Phonics Roadshow
Friday, 09 June 2017
Team leader Professor Rhona Stainthorp.
A team of Reading researchers has been awarded a tender from the Department for Education (DfE) to take the Phonics Roadshow to 12 local authorities this summer.
The team, which consists of four researchers from the Institute of Education, will run whole-day training events in partnership with local authorities whose results in the Government’s Phonics Screening Check – a measure of 5 and 6-year-olds’ word-reading ability – have fallen below national averages.
Team leader Professor Rhona Stainthorp is joined by colleagues Professor Morag Stuart, Dr Naomi Flynn and Dr Daisy Powell. Combining their shared experience and expertise, the team is currently working with 12 local authorities across the south of England, East Anglia, the Midlands and Derbyshire.
The roadshow is aimed at Year 1 teachers and senior school leaders and will include: refreshing teachers’ subject knowledge of the research which underpins effective teaching of phonics; demonstrations from local, expert primary teachers; and time for planning and reflection on school improvement for phonics teaching.
Rhona Stainthorp said:
“Developing teachers’ research-informed practice is at the heart of the Institute of Education’s teacher training ethos. We are delighted to have this opportunity to work in partnership with teachers and local authorities to raise standards in reading. The response we have had from the authorities selected to take part has been fantastic. It is a privilege to be working with such dedicated practitioners.”
Professor Cathy Tissot, Director of the Institute of Education commented:
“This is another feather in the cap for Reading’s excellent reputation for both research and practice in the teaching of reading. We are delighted to be working with the DfE in this way.”
The first of the roadshows took place in late May and the remaining 11 will be delivered across June and July.
Read the full story at the IoE News and Events page.