Dear Ms Williams,

We are writing to you as the Chair of the Children, Young People and Education Committee, to introduce ourselves and to explain the work of the Literacy Expert Panel (LEP).

The LEP has been advising on a national approach to literacy that is firmly grounded in scientific evidence, drawing on the diverse experiences and expertise of its members. This multidisciplinary panel comprises leading researchers with many years of experience and deep knowledge of effective literacy teaching. A majority of panellists also have direct experience of teaching literacy with children and young people, ensuring that our discussions are informed by both research and classroom practice.

An early focus of our work has been the development of a Key Principles document designed to support teachers and all education stakeholders in Wales to ensure effective literacy teaching and learning. 

One of the principles that we have developed is recognition of the fundamental importance of oral language development to the development of reading and writing. Another principle is the importance of systematic phonics teaching: this principle has been augmented with a Statement of Intent for further clarity in relation to phonics teaching. 

The LEP, which has to date met 14 times over as many months, is highly motivated to contribute to building a scientific, evidence-informed approach to literacy that can be applied consistently across Wales. 

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss our work with you further should you wish to do so.

Best regards,

The Literacy Expert Panel:

Angella Cooze
Cameron Downing
Usha Goswami
Carl Hughes
Manon Jones
James Mannion
Sharon McMurray
Dominic Wyse