TACTYC, the association for the professional development of early years educators, argues that introducing phonics teaching in nursery and reception and the phonics test in Year 1 is highly inappropriate and is not supported by research or evidence from teachers.
In their response to the Department for Education's consultation on the Year 1 phonics test screening, they say, 'Assessment against set targets drives provision: a simplistic focus on phonics will inevitably distort children's learning and limit the breadth of their experience.'
They add, 'Training children of five or six to decode text without regard to their understanding can result in losing confidence in themselves as readers. It is essential to include comprehension and reading for meaning and enjoyment into the mix from the start.'
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