Department for Education validates West Berkshire Council's 'Flying Start with Letters and Sounds' phonics scheme for national use

West Berkshire Council says it is "delighted" that the Department for Education (DfE) has validated its phonics scheme for national use.

The scheme, a 'Flying Start with Letters and Sounds’ has been added to a list of approved schemes that can be used nationally in early years settings and schools.

It is a programme that enables children to develop good language skills and a wide vocabulary as well as to acquire the skills to read independently.

The work has been led by the council’s early years team, alongside The Parsons Down Partnership of Schools and Victoria Park Nursery and Family Hub.

Dominic Boeck (Con, Aldermaston), West Berkshire’s executive member for children, young people and education, said: “This is a brilliant achievement that will help not only children in West Berkshire to develop a life-long love of reading, but across the UK too. It really is a game changer that offers endless benefits.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in this important project. Their commitment and hard work will make a tangible difference to many people.

"I hope that as many schools as possible will implement a 'Flying Start with Letters and Sounds' as part of their curriculum.”

The programme provides a wide range of tools, including a comprehensive teaching manual on how to deliver the programme with daily teaching plans and progression charts, that follow the letters and sounds order, as well as multi-sensory activities and games.

Ten pilot schools in West Berkshire have reported that children are enjoying the multi-sensory approach and are making rapid progress.

The council has also been short-listed for the national Campaign for Learning, Family Learning Early Years Award in recognition of the early years parent courses in West Berkshire.

The Early Literacy and Early Maths and the Reading Together courses support parents to enhance their child’s learning at home through fun, everyday activities, helping them to feel more confident and empowered in nurturing their child’s learning and development at home.

The need for this support has been even more vital since the pandemic and helps families feel better prepared when their children are starting school.

Kirstie Hanson, early years foundation stage (EYFS) improvement adviser at West Berkshire Council, and Louise Griffiths, of Victoria Park Nursery and Family Hub, wrote and developed the courses.

They attended the launch of the National Centre for Family Learning earlier this month at the House of Lords with other shortlisted organisations. The winner will be announced at the end of March.