Phonics checks and Hihira Weteoro (phonics checks for those learning through te reo Māori) mark a major step forward to lift achievement in pānui | reading and tuhituhi | writing.

The checks are being introduced as part of the shift to structured literacy approaches and Rangaranga Reo ā-Tā. They will support teachers and kaiako in teaching the new English and Te Reo Rangatira curriculum areas (Years 0-6).

Children and mokopuna in their first year of school are excited to learn and want to do well in everything they experience. Providing opportunities to celebrate their progress and achievement while identifying when they need additional support early will help them to be confident and competent learners. The checks will also allow us to build a national picture of how our young learners are settling into school and kura.

The phonics check for English settings is a short assessment to measure how well a child can sound out words. It includes real and made-up words.

Hihira Weteoro is made up of 6 aromatawai.

At 20 weeks of schooling (approximately 6 months or 2 terms), the check assesses the ability to hear and distinguish correct sounds.

At 40 weeks (approximately 1 year or 4 terms), the focus shifts to identifying lower case letters.

At 55 weeks, an additional suite of assessments is recommended to evaluate whether mokopuna are progressing effectively in phonics-related skills essential for pānui | reading and tuhituhi | writing.

The rollout of the checks follows trials across schools and kura during Term 4, 2024. These validated both checks as being suitable for New Zealand students. Issues that were raised have been addressed.

For both trials, attendance played a role in how well children performed, demonstrating the importance of regular attendance right from day 1.