Transforming literacy outcomes through evidence-based teaching and targeted support
Introduction: The English Hubs Programme
In 2018, the UK Department for Education launched the English Hubs programme — an ambitious initiative designed to improve literacy outcomes for children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Following the success of the Maths Hubs model, 34 English Hubs were established across England, each selected for their proven expertise in teaching early reading.
The mission is clear: ensure every child, regardless of background, needs, or abilities, becomes a successful reader. English Hubs achieve this by promoting excellence in teaching phonics, developing early language skills, and fostering a genuine love of reading.
The Programme Overview: How English Hubs Work
Eligibility and Reach
English Hubs specifically target schools with lower-than-expected phonics screening check results or those serving disadvantaged communities. Support is focused on Reception and Year 1, the critical window where reading foundations are established.
- Schools can access support if they meet criteria such as:
- Lower-than-national-average phonics screening results
- Above-average proportions of disadvantaged pupils
- Ofsted ratings requiring improvement
What Support Is Available?
Each English Hub provides a tiered support model:
Tier 1: Universal Support
- Showcase events demonstrating excellent phonics and early language teaching
- Open days where schools can observe best practice in action
- Access to resources and training materials
Tier 2: Targeted Support
- Reading audits to identify areas for improvement
- Action planning support
- Funding for validated systematic synthetic phonics programmes
- Up to 6 days of in-school support from a Literacy Specialist
Tier 3: Intensive Support
- Up to 12 days of in-school support for schools with the greatest need
- Intensive coaching and mentoring
- Sustained implementation support
Funding Available
Schools working with English Hubs can receive:
- £3,000 for purchasing DfE-validated systematic synthetic phonics programmes
- Up to £3,000 for training and resources to implement the programme effectively
- Access to Literacy Specialists at no cost to the school
What Makes English Hubs Effective: The Evidence
1. Systematic Synthetic Phonics
English Hubs champion systematic synthetic phonics (SSP) — an evidence-backed approach where children learn to read by blending sounds together. The DfE maintains a validated list of SSP programmes that schools can choose from.
Key elements that work:
- Daily, discrete phonics sessions of at least 30 minutes
- Rigorous, structured progression through sound patterns
- Immediate intervention for children falling behind
- Consistent approach across all classes
2. Focus on Early Language Development
Research consistently shows that children’s vocabulary and oral language skills at age five are the strongest predictors of later reading comprehension. English Hubs emphasise:
- High-quality talk in every classroom
- Vocabulary-rich environments
- Storytime and book talk
- Parental engagement in language development
3. Reading for Pleasure
Phonics teaches children how to read — but reading for pleasure ensures they want to read. Successful English Hubs integrate:
- Daily storytime as a non-negotiable
- Carefully curated book corners and libraries
- Reading aloud with expression and enjoyment
- Time for independent reading and book choice
4. Precision in Assessment and Intervention
The most effective schools don’t just teach phonics — they continuously assess and respond. This means:
- Half-termly assessments of all children’s phonics knowledge
- Immediate, same-day catch-up for children who struggle
- Identified ‘keep-up’ children who need ongoing support
- Clear intervention programmes with dedicated staff
Case Study: Transforming Literacy in a Coastal Town
Parkfield Primary School (name changed) serves a coastal community where 48% of pupils qualify for pupil premium. Before engaging with their local English Hub in 2019, only 62% of Year 1 children passed the phonics screening check.
The Journey:
Year 1: Foundation Building
The headteacher attended a showcase event at the English Hub and recognised that their phonics programme lacked consistency. They applied for Tier 2 support and received funding for a new validated SSP programme.
Year 2: Implementation
With support from a Literacy Specialist, the school:
- Trained all staff in the new phonics approach
- Restructured the daily timetable to prioritise reading
- Created intervention groups for the lowest 20%
- Invested in decodable books matched to phonics phases
Year 3: Embedding and Sustaining
The school achieved 89% pass rate on the phonics screening check. More importantly, lesson observations showed children genuinely enjoying their reading lessons, and teachers reported increased confidence.
“The English Hub didn’t just give us money for resources — they gave us the expertise to use them properly. Our Literacy Specialist visited regularly, modelled lessons, and helped us troubleshoot challenges. That sustained support made all the difference.”
How to Replicate Success in Your School: Practical Steps
Even if your school isn’t eligible for direct English Hub support, you can replicate the key elements of their approach:
Step 1: Audit Your Current Practice
Conduct an honest evaluation:
- What phonics programme do you use? Is it DfE validated?
- How consistent is teaching across Reception and Year 1?
- What percentage of children pass the phonics screening check?
- How quickly do you identify and support children falling behind?
- When do children read for pleasure during the school day?
Step 2: Choose and Commit to a Validated SSP Programme
The DfE validates phonics programmes that meet rigorous criteria. Choosing one ensures:
- Evidence-based progression
- Comprehensive training for staff
- Quality-assured resources
DfE Validated Programmes include:
- Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised
- Phonics International
- Read Write Inc. Phonics
- Rocket Phonics
- Essential Letters and Sounds
Step 3: Prioritise Daily Phonics
Research shows phonics must be daily, discrete, and rigorous:
- Every child in Reception and Year 1 receives daily phonics
- 30 minutes minimum for the main lesson
- Same time every day — non-negotiable
- All staff trained and confident in delivery
Step 4: Implement Same-Day Intervention
The most effective schools don’t wait until the end of term to help struggling readers.
Same-day intervention model:
- Morning phonics lesson identifies children who need support
- These children receive targeted intervention that same afternoon
- Intervention is delivered by trained staff (teaching assistants, teachers, or specialists)
- Progress is tracked weekly
Step 5: Invest in Decodable Books
Children need books they can actually read using their phonics knowledge. Decodable books:
- Match the phonics sounds children have learned
- Build confidence through success
- Prevent guessing strategies
Step 6: Make Reading for Pleasure Central
Phonics provides the tools — reading for pleasure provides the motivation:
- Daily storytime with engaging, diverse texts
- Book corners that invite children to explore
- Author visits and reading events
- Home reading that’s about enjoyment, not just homework
Key Resources and Next Steps
Official Resources
English Hubs Website: englishhubs.net
- Interactive map to find your local hub
- Showcase event booking
- Application guidance for support
DfE Validated SSP Programmes:
- Full list: Search “DfE validated systematic synthetic phonics programmes”
- Each provider offers free webinars and sample materials
National Literacy Trust:
- Research reports on literacy teaching
- Free resources for schools
- Early Years resources for language development
Professional Development
Free Options:
- English Hub showcase events
- SSP provider webinars
- National Literacy Trust training
Investment Opportunities:
- Certified phonics training (3-5 days)
- Literacy Specialist qualifications
- Early Language Lead training
Conclusion: Every School Can Improve Literacy Outcomes
The English Hubs programme demonstrates that focused, evidence-based intervention can transform literacy outcomes for children — particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The core principles are replicable in any school:
- Consistency in phonics teaching approach
- Precision in assessment and intervention
- Passion for sharing the joy of reading
- Persistence in supporting every child
Whether you access direct support from an English Hub or implement these strategies independently, the goal remains the same: ensuring every child leaves primary school as a confident, capable reader.
Your Next Step: Contact your local English Hub today to book a showcase event. Seeing excellent practice in action is the best starting point for transformation.
