Woodlea Primary School’s Headteacher, Nina Gambier, received a letter from Rt Hon Damian Hinds MP, Minister for Schools, congratulating her on the school’s outstanding achievement in the 2023 Phonics Screening Check.  With 97% of pupils in Year 1 at Woodlea Primary School meeting the expected standard in the check, the school is in the top 3% of all primary schools in the country. 

The Phonics Screening Check is a statutory assessment that evaluates the phonics knowledge of Year 1 pupils.  That Woodlea significantly exceeded the national average for the phonics check, reflects the exceptional dedication of its staff as well as its pupils and their parents /carers to achieving literacy excellence.  Staff at Woodlea have made enormous efforts in Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1, with the support of parents / carers, to ensure all pupils have strong phonics knowledge. 

Nina Gambier, Headteacher of Woodlea Primary School said, “We take great pride in the work we do with the children at Woodlea.  We recognise the achievements of all our pupils, and we celebrate all aspects of their learning whether that be emotional, social, physical, or academic. As teachers, we strive to do the best job we can and are always seeking to refine our practice and become even better.  We are delighted to receive this external recognition and praise for the job we do.” 

Rebecca Plaskitt, Chief Executive of Tandridge Learning Trust said, “The exceptional results in the Phonics Screening Check reflect the effectiveness of the phonics curriculum and the dedication of all staff at Woodlea Primary School to foster strong foundational literacy skills.   While we know phonics knowledge is only part of the children’s journey to become fluent, avid readers, it is a very important building block.  Congratulations to staff, pupils, and parents at Woodlea for their outstanding achievement.”