Phonics screening check data collection: guide
Guide for local authorities to help them complete and return the 2026 phonics screening check data collection.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
Important dates
Dates for the 2026 data collection
Collection opens: 8 June 2026
Deadline for submitting data: 17 July 2026
This guide has information for local authorities to help them collect and submit phonics screening check data collection returns from all maintained schools, academies, special schools and free schools in their regions.
It includes:
- what schools are in the scope of the collection
- what pupils are in the scope of the collection
- what data needs to be submitted
- a data collection timetable
- data reporting formats
- recording and reporting options
Read more guidance about submitting data for the 2026 phonics screening check data collection.
Phonics teaches people to read by relating sounds with letters and words. The phonics screening check is designed to check whether pupils understand phonics to an appropriate standard.
Updates to this page
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Updated 'Phonics screening check data collection guide' for 2026 and updated dates for the 2026 data collection.
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Updated with the Phonics screening check data collection guide for 2025.
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First published.