Research and Evaluation Services for the PIRLS in 2026

Description

With the increased scrutiny on educational performance and the particular focus on reading and literacy, Welsh Government has taken the decision to actively seek participation in the PIRLS study. PIRLS would provide Welsh Government with an insight into the performance of year 5 learners in reading and literacy with an international benchmark. This in-depth information allows us to see and understand how learner performance interacts with learner characteristics and the school context. It will also enable us to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of our learners at a national level to assess where guidance and professional learning can be supported to improve teaching and learning. This evidence, with the international context, will enable us to better understand our learners’ reading skills and how we can improve educational standards in reading going forward.