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Why did Newcroft Primary Academy choose FFT Success for All Phonics?
School leaders and staff sought a programme from a trusted name in the education sector that was fully aligned with the National Curriculum and offered a progressive, fast-paced approach from preschool upwards, complementing the school’s outstanding curriculum offer.
Newcroft was particularly impressed by the comprehensive resources and support provided by FFT Success for All Phonics, which enabled teachers to deliver high-quality phonics instruction with confidence and consistency.
The programme’s proven impact on improving literacy skills, alongside its ability to foster a love of reading among all pupils, was a key factor in the school’s decision. Leaders also valued the inclusion of an online assessment tool, designed to streamline teaching and assessment and reduce workload. The excellent value for money offered by FFT Success for All Phonics further cemented the school’s decision to adopt the programme.
Lorraine Lloyd
Year 1 Teacher and Phonics Lead
All phonics staff undertook the initial core training via the webinars as a group during the summer term before we launched the scheme in September 2022. Prior to rolling out the scheme I ran a training session, modelling a lesson in practise during a teacher training day and then refreshed my knowledge by watching the on-demand videos on the portal.
I find the planning clear, straight forward and easy to use and I like that all of the resources are provided. The children love it and they are developing into excellent readers that share a love for reading.
I’m delighted with the results we gained last year using the SfA phonics programme. The portal is a fantastic resource that I use frequently and I love that all of the documents are available as digital downloads, so you can easily make more. This has positively impacted staff workload, everything is clearly planned and easy to follow. The Reading Assessment Programme is another excellent resource that I use frequently to assess and monitor children’s progress. This has had a huge impact on reducing my workload as I can easily pull off reports rather than manually flicking through paper assessments.
The support I have received from FFT is exemplary. Whatever your method and nature of enquiry, the support team are very fast, friendly and helpful.”
Implementing the programme
All preschool, reception, KS1, and Year 3 staff attended webinars to complete the core training required for delivering phonics and shared reader lessons. The entire Newcroft team was also briefed on the programme and shown how to use the online portals. Additionally, the phonics team took part in an extra training session led by the Phonics Lead and Assistant Head, where they reviewed a typical lesson plan and practised delivering lessons collaboratively. New staff joining year groups complete the on-demand training sessions as part of their induction.
The portal serves as an excellent resource, which staff frequently use to refresh their understanding of programme implementation. After the first few weeks of delivery, the Phonics Lead and English Lead visited classes, conducted observations, and provided feedback on strengths and areas where additional training or support might be beneficial. Staff also make regular use of the CPD opportunities available through the portal and are actively encouraged to engage with these sessions.
Staff delivering FFT’s Success for All Phonics programme have praised the straightforward implementation process and the clarity of the planning and materials provided. They have also highlighted the quality of the continuing professional development (CPD) and the consistent support available to ensure effective delivery.
pass rate
average score
parental engagement
Reading progress made
In June 2024, the school achieved outstanding phonics screening check results, with a 100% pass rate and an average score of 38. These results were significantly above both local and national averages, placing the school in the top 10% of results nationally.
The implementation of the Success for All programme has also led to a substantial increase in parental engagement with early reading.
Phonics screening check results:
2023-24
Year 1: 100%
2024-25
Year 1: 100%
Year 2: 100%
Spotlight on pupil progress
Pupil A, Year 1
Pupil C, Year 2
Teacher comment:
After one year of SFA phonics, Pupil C went from being a reluctant reader with low decoding accuracy and WCPM to reading 51 WCPM and scoring 39 on the Phonics Screen Test and with a standardised score of 103. He really liked the visuals and the rhymes for the GPCs. His mother was amazed at his progress and the love of reading he developed.
I really enjoy phonics. I like the rhymes with the GPCs, such as “I see a tree,” because they help me learn and remember the sounds. The books are great because we get to work with a partner and help each other. The red words at the front of the book also help us remember them.
Pupil B, Year 1
Pupil D, Year 2
Teacher comment:
Pupil D joined our school at the beginning of Year 2 and he used a different programme at his previous school. After only a few weeks of using SFA’s Spelling with the Jungle Club, this was his response.
Why is Newcroft Primary Academy pleased with FFT Success for All Phonics?
Lorraine Lloyd, Year 1 Teacher and Phonics Lead, highlights the benefits seen since using the phonics programme:
All staff teaching the Success for All Phonics programme like the ease and simplicity of following the plans. The assessments are easy to administer and give a clear picture of individual’s and cohort progress.
Everything is progressive and the visuals and rhymes are excellent for memory aid. Often, if children are stuck, they will say the rhyme and then this helps them identify the GPC.
Support that we receive is speedy and efficient, delivered via email, phone, and the online portal. FFT are always open to suggestions and feedback to improve their offer to schools.
The portals are regularly updated with new and adapted materials, while the CPD offer remains comprehensive, providing both on-demand and live training to support and enhance teaching across all year groups.
Even reluctant readers enjoy the lessons and develop into confident readers that share a love of reading.