RESPONDING to the publication of Estyn's report today which says primary pupils in Wales are not making enough progress with reading, Shadow Education Minister Paul Davies said:
"It is clear work still needs to be done to make sure all primary schoolchildren in Wales are getting the best grounding possible in reading and writing, in both English and Welsh.
"The better their skills in these core areas – the better their basis will be in all subjects.
"It is very disappointing that the number of 5‐7 year olds reaching 'good' reading and writing levels has stagnated over the past 5 years.
"We should be striving to ensure these figures are consistently rising – instead of settling for 'good' we should be aiming for excellent.
"Estyn sets out the importance of developing a child's oracy skills – listening and speaking – along with reading and writing.
"It is vital these key areas of development in young children are not forgotten about as schools try to meet set reading and writing targets.
"I am pleased the Assembly Government acknowledges there is no room for complacency in this area.
"Now it is vital that Labour and Plaid look in depth at the findings of this report and alongside teachers work to ensure that these figures start improving once again."