Phonics screening data collection: technical specification

This specification is intended for:

• suppliers developing software for use in management information systems (MIS)
• local authorities collecting and submitting the phonics screening check data collection

It contains:

• the business rationale for the return
• changes to the 20252026 return
• assessment module descriptions
• methods for importing data into local authorities’ information systems
• XML formats and messages
• validation check information

This guide must be read in conjunction with the current version of the common basic data set (CBDS).