Teaching unions urge rethink of phonics checks
Leaders of three teaching unions have written to MPs urging a rethink of the phonics checks for six-year olds which are starting in schools.
The unions say the controversial tests are an expensive way to tell schools what they already know and will do nothing to improve children's reading.
They describe the checks on how well children can read both real and made-up words, as "flawed".
Schools minister Nick Gibb called the unions' position disappointing.
Mr Gibb said: "Many of their members have already told us how this quick check will allow them to identify thousands of children who need extra help to become good readers.
But in a joint briefing note to MPs the leaders of the National Union of Teachers, the Association of Teachers and Lecturers and the National Association of Head Teachers voiced their concerns about the checks.
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... (BBC News - 18 June)