Pupils at Lift Hazelwood Primary School are celebrating after achieving another impressive set of phonics results, with 93 per cent of Year 1 children meeting the expected standard in this year’s national phonics screening check.
The result means the Swindon school has now recorded a pass rate of more than 90 per cent for the third consecutive year, comfortably exceeding the current national average of 80 per cent.
School leaders say the success reflects a sustained focus on reading from the earliest years, with children introduced to books, stories, rhymes and songs from the age of two through the school’s nursery provision.
Staff closely monitor every pupil’s progress, providing additional support where needed through one-to-one sessions, targeted phonics teaching and regular assessments to ensure no child falls behind.
Families are also encouraged to play an active role in developing reading skills at home through workshops, online guidance and resources that reinforce classroom learning.
Reading remains central to everyday life at the school, with a library forming the heart of the building and dedicated book corners in every classroom encouraging children to pick up a book throughout the day.
The school is also preparing to expand its nursery provision from September, creating additional places for younger children.
Principal Suzanne Lloyd said the results were a reflection of the combined efforts of pupils, staff and parents.
“We are incredibly proud of our phonics results, which reflect the hard work of our pupils, staff and families. At Lift Hazelwood, reading is at the heart of everything we do and we are relentless in ensuring every child has the very best start. From our nursery onwards, we focus on building strong foundations in reading and encouraging a lifelong love of books.”
Karl Sampson, Regional Education Director for Lift Schools, said maintaining such high standards over several years required dedication from the whole school community.
“To achieve results like this year after year takes real commitment. Lift Hazelwood has created a culture where reading comes first, children are supported every step of the way and families are genuine partners in learning.
“We are incredibly proud of what the school has achieved and the opportunities it is creating for every child to become a confident reader.”
The latest figures place Lift Hazelwood well above the national benchmark and continue the school’s strong record of helping children develop the reading skills that form the foundation for future learning.
