Investigating the impact of the FFT Tutoring with the Lightning Squad programme on reading skills of Year 3-4 pupils

This study is open to state-funded primary schools in England that have at least two Year 3 classes and two Year 4 classes. Schools also need to have the right computer equipment and internet access to run the online part of the programme. They also can't have used this specific programme in the last couple of years or be involved in other similar trials at the same time.

For children to take part, they need to be in Year 3 or Year 4 during the 2025/2026 school year. Their teachers will identify children who are struggling with reading, especially with sounding out words and reading fluently. Out of these, eight children from each participating year group will be chosen to take part.

Children cannot join if they are severely visually impaired or have a condition called selective mutism, as the assessment tools might not be suitable for them. Also, if a school is already using similar reading programmes or is part of other government-funded trials, they won't be able to participate in this one.

If a school decides to take part, they'll sign an agreement. Teachers will then use a special test and their professional judgment to identify eight Year 3 and eight Year 4 pupils who need extra reading help. Schools will then be split into two groups by chance. One group will have their Year 3 pupils use the "Lightning Squad" programme, while the other group will have their Year 4 pupils use it.

Children in the programme will work in pairs on the online platform with a tutor helping them. These sessions last about 30 minutes and happen 4 to 5 times a week. They'll regularly check their progress as they move through different reading levels. All participating pupils will also take part in some reading assessments at the beginning and end of the 2025/2026 school year. The study will run from February 2024 to July 2027.