The Year 8 Reading Test will be introduced in 2026 and will be mandatory in all schools. The government hopes this test of fluency and comprehension will drive up standards in reading by identifying children who are falling behind across the curriculum and enabling the most able to excel. Test results will be shared with parents and OFSTED but will not be published of league tabled.

“There is one barrier in particular I worry is locking young people out. Because before a child can even begin to engage in everything their school has to offer, they must first be able to read.”