Oral QuestionDepartment for Education

What steps she is taking through the National Year of Reading 2026 to improve phonics attainment at Key Stage 1.

Tabled: 24 February 2026Answered: 2 March 2026

Asked by

Anneliese Midgley

LabourKnowsley

Answering Minister

the Secretary of State for Education

Answer from Hansard

The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)

As my hon. Friend knows well, ensuring that all our children, in every corner of the country, learn to read quickly and to enjoy reading is one of this Labour Government’s key priorities. We are building strong foundations for every child in this National Year of Reading. Our best start in life strategy will expand support to improve phonics teaching, and through our regional improvement for standards and excellence English hubs, we are doubling the reach of our “reading ambition for all” programme, so that every child achieves and thrives.