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In our discussions with international schools around the world, we often hear something like this:
“We do phonics. We do a bit of this approach and a little bit of something else.”
But fidelity to a phonics scheme requires a serious, long-term commitment—much like a marriage or lifelong partnership!
The Science of Reading emphasises the importance of sticking with a single, consistent approach, stating that “fidelity to a programme is critical for success.” By following a programme faithfully, schools can avoid the confusion that arises from mixing methods, enabling students to develop a clear, consistent foundation in phonics. This consistency allows children to “practise, apply, and embed their skills without distraction or contradiction.”
Think about a strong, lasting relationship. It’s built on trust, consistency, and a genuine investment in growth, and phonics is no different. When schools flit from one approach to another, it’s like speed-dating in the educational world, and it rarely leads to the happy ending we all want for our young learners.
The Keys to Phonics Fidelity
Invest in Training
Just as you wouldn’t expect to run a marathon without preparation, effective phonics requires time, expertise, and dedication. Regular CPD ensures that all staff, including new team members, are confident and consistent in their practice. As the Reading Framework notes, “high-quality training, consistent across all staff, is essential for success.”
Show You Care
We all know relationships take work, and it’s no different in phonics. Supporting those who struggle means acting early, tracking progress, and never letting a learner slip through the net. Nurture, adapt, and respond.
Stay Aligned
Fidelity refers to the alignment of teaching, resources, assessment, and language. It’s not just about starting strong—it’s about maintaining a shared commitment over time. The Reading Framework recommends schools “avoid mixing different programmes” to ensure every child gets a coherent, joined-up experience.
Get the Family on Board
No relationship thrives in isolation. Engaging parents builds a powerful home-school connection that boosts progress and reinforces phonics practice beyond the classroom.
ICA Schools: You've Already Said "Yes"
ICA schools don’t need to worry about finding the right phonics partner—they already have the free love of Monster Phonics!
The International Curriculum Association looked at every programme on the market and chose to partner with us for a reason: our enhanced, inclusive, and research-based approach stood out. As part of this partnership, every ICA member school now has full access to the complete Monster Phonics programme, along with substantial training and support. To find out how to access these resources, head over to the ICA Portal!
It’s a wonderful addition to the ICA offer—and a true example of what phonics fidelity looks like in action. With our shared commitment, we’re not just delivering a phonics programme—we’re giving children the joyful, confident reading start they deserve.
