§ Keith VazTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what measures will be taken to increase the number of 7-year-old children reaching set literacy standards. [85054]
§ Mr. MilibandThe National Literacy Strategy (NLS) is raising literacy standards in primary schools. In this year's national tests, 84 per cent. of 7-year-olds achieved the level expected for their age—level 2 or above— in reading compared to 80 per cent. in 1998 and 69 per cent. achieved at the upper end of level 2—level 2B or above—compared to 62 per cent. in 1998.
100WWe remain committed to making further improvements in standards. We have introduced a new intervention programme, Early Literacy Support, to help those children in Year 1 who are already struggling with literacy or at risk of developing literacy difficulties later on. We will also continue to review and refine the literacy strategy in response to the latest research and evidence from our most successful schools.