BrowsePetitions#700021
PETITIONClosedPetition · petition.parliament.uk

Adapt EYFS and KS1 Literacy Curriculums to be inclusive for Non-Verbal children

We want the current phonics screening test, the early years and the Key Stage 1 curriculum frameworks to be adapted to make them inclusive for children with oral communication challenges.

Last fetched 03 May 2026 · petition.parliament.uk
Signatures
2,026
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 2,026/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 2,026/100,000
Background
Some children can read even if they cannot speak; reading and speaking are not synonymous. The current phonics screening test measures speech, not the ability to read. Several EYFS and KS1 milestones require children to “read aloud” or “compose a sentence orally”, to meet success criteria. By not allowing alternative forms of communication, we risk placing a limit on their learning. Schools need guidance and support to provide inclusive learning for all.