Understanding patterns and trends of reading attainment during transition from primary to secondary stage: What does PISA and National Pupil Data tell

North East England has the highest proportion of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading at Key Stage 2 outside of London, but the lowest Attainment 8 and Progress 8 scores for GCSE English Language. It is also the region with the highest percentage of wards who are vulnerable to literacy vulnerability outside of London. Reading has been an increasing focus of education policy, and reforms to the curriculum particularly in primary school have reflected this. This study investigates the factors that determine the level of reading attainment in North East England. Linking data from international assessments such as the
PISA 2018 survey and the National Pupil Database, patterns for regional reading attainment in England will be analysed. Using complex regression modelling, possible explanations for these patterns then will be considered. Finally, the study will consider current policy related to reading attainment, and whether this is likely to address the issues highlighted by the findings. The final conclusions will further knowledge of a high level of deprivation which will be useful in education and wider social services.