This overview provides key information and guidance about the teaching of early reading. It pays particular attention to phonic work, and the implications of this for practice in the light of the final report of the Independent review of the teaching of early reading (the Rose Report) published in March 2006.

The overview is in two parts:

• Part 1 is primarily for headteachers, literacy leaders and managers. It highlights their key role in taking forward the renewed Framework, sets out criteria for choosing a high-quality phonics programme and poses important questions that they need to consider in implementing the Rose Report.
• Part 2 is primarily for practitioners and teachers but it is also a useful reference for those in leadership and managerial positions because it provides detailed guidance that underpins the aspects considered in Part 1.