Addressing Inequality
in Education and
Opportunity
Addressing inequality in education and opportunity
Why are we needed?
The ability to read and write is essential for meaningful participation in society. While some children begin life with the advantages of privilege, economic stability and a natural ability to learn to read, others do not. Learning to read is one of the most effective ways to overcome disadvantages. The benefits multiply as children read more, expanding their vocabulary, developing their imagination, and increasing their understanding and knowledge of the world. Fluent reading opens doors to education, employment, and personal growth, enabling individuals to navigate and contribute to the world around them.
The Challenge
The Root Cause
We believe the root cause of this persistent problem is poor instruction, stemming from a lack of knowledge and understanding among those responsible for teaching reading and writing. Around the world, traditional methods and outdated practices continue to dominate classrooms, often failing to equip learners with the skills they need to succeed. In England, where systematic synthetic phonics (SSP) has been established for several years, there is still a lack of understanding of the alphabetic code and the best way to ensure that all children master it.
Our Role
Teachers, who teach all ages and abilities, and their leaders in schools, so that they can make informed decisions about how to teach and which programmes to use.
Those who advise and train teachers, including those involved in initial teacher training, early career support and ongoing professional development, so that their advice and training is informed by evidence, knowledge and understanding.
School inspectors, so that their judgements are sound and based on knowledge, understanding and evidence.
Everyone else involved in the teaching of reading, including parents, teaching assistants, tutors, speech therapists, education psychologists, education publishers, librarians, etc.
Making a Difference
- Improve literacy rates among children and adults.
- Equip educators with the tools and knowledge needed for effective teaching.
- Challenge and change outdated and ineffective practices that hinder learning, both for beginners and for older learners who have not yet learned to read successfully.
- Ensure teachers have high aspirations for every learner, so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve reading proficiency.
