Choosing the Right Programme
Before selecting an online phonics programme, it’s important to consider the following:
Purpose: Do you need a programme that can be used independently or one that requires teacher support?
Scope: Are you looking for a programme that focuses exclusively on phonics or one that includes other areas like spelling and comprehension?
Assessment and Progress Monitoring: How important is it for you to track progress and access detailed assessment data?
Engagement and Age Appropriateness: Is the programme engaging for your learners’ age group? Consider options with varying levels of interactivity.
See below the options we recommend with some pros and cons:
https://www.lexialearning.com/core5
Lexia is a blended learning programme with sections on Word Study, Grammar, and Comprehension. It includes primary and secondary levels, with flexible assessments that adapt to the learner’s proficiency in each area. Teachers can monitor progress and access downloadable over-learning resources.
Pros
Research-backed and suitable for learners at varying literacy levels.
Secondary learners can progress in different skill areas as needed.
Identifies areas needing additional support quickly.
Cons
Requires teacher involvement for optimal effectiveness.
Research supports general literacy improvements rather than dyslexia-specific outcomes.
Lexplore uses AI-based eye-tracking assessments to measure reading fluency, providing data on fluency and reading behaviours for students from Year 1 to GCSE. It includes an app for at-home fluency practice.
Pros
Offers unique insights into reading fluency and eye movement efficiency.
Helps teachers understand reading behaviours.
Cons
Focuses only on fluency; lacks components for comprehension and decoding.
Doesn’t include spelling support, so additional teaching is needed.
Literacy Gold offers structured support in spelling, phonics, comprehension, and visual skills, including Engaging Eyes, which enhances tracking and focusing abilities. It’s designed for dyslexic learners, with uncluttered visuals suitable for older students.
Pros
Addresses visual processing difficulties, beneficial for children with visual tracking challenges.
Involves physical writing tasks using paper or whiteboards.
Includes standardised scores for reading and spelling.
Cons
Visual skills focus may not be relevant for all dyslexic learners.
Assessment data doesn’t clearly indicate specific phonics skills mastered.
Dated standardised tests (Burt and Blackwell) are used.
Nessy is a fully game-based programme for ages 6–11, using engaging activities to target phonics, reading, and spelling skills. Developed by dyslexia experts, it includes an entry assessment that generates five personalised reading and spelling targets.
Pros
Highly engaging and supportive of dyslexic learners.
Game-based approach makes learning fun and interactive.
Includes many downloadable activities for additional practice.
Cons
Games may feel too juvenile for upper primary students.
Sensory-heavy interface may challenge students with sensory sensitivities.
Phonics and Spelling Shed
This programme combines curriculum-based phonics and spelling instruction with assessments, games, and lesson plans. It’s designed for primary students but can also be used for secondary catch-up.
Pros
Cost-effective with extensive resources and lesson plans.
Well-integrated with school curriculums.
Fun, engaging activities for consistent practice.
Cons
Not specifically designed for SEN, so may require customisation for dyslexic learners.
Some users find the website challenging to navigate.
Stepsweb is a structured literacy programme from New Zealand, created by a dyslexia specialist. It supports phonics, orthographic processing, and phonological awareness with a structured approach suitable for older learners. It also includes a spelling age test and printable resources.
Pros
Content adapts to older learners and is based on the English National Curriculum.
Minimal teacher involvement required, making it a practical choice for busy educators.
Cons
Simple graphics may lack engagement compared to other programmes.
Less suitable for younger learners due to its straightforward layout.