The latest EEF results are in: +2 months’ reading progress - Discover the findings from our large-scale effectiveness trial. Explore the Results

EEF Results Hub

Independent evidence, meaningful literacy impact

The latest independent Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) effectiveness trial explored the impact of Lexia Core5 Reading as a reading intervention of pupils identified as struggling readers.

The study built on encouraging findings from an earlier efficacy trial, which demonstrated Lexia's potential under optimal conditions. The effectiveness trial was designed to assess whether these benefits could be sustained when delivered at scale in typical school settings, where implementation conditions are less controlled.

The effectiveness trial involved 224 primary schools and almost 2,700 pupils across England. Pupils in the intervention group used Lexia Core5 Reading for a recommended four to five 30-minute sessions each week over a period of 12-24 weeks, alongside their usual classroom teaching.

The Results

The EEF evaluation found that pupils using Lexia Core5 Reading made +2 months additional progress in reading compared with non-Lexia (control) struggling readers who received their school's usual intervention.

Alongside the measurable improvement in attainment, participating schools highlighted increased pupil engagement, stronger reading confidence and the value of the programme's assessment and reporting tools in supporting targeted intervention.

Struggling readers using Lexia made on average +2 months additional progress when compared to peers of a similar ability in control schools.

Pupils eligible for free school meals made on average, an additional +2 months of progress compared to their peers.

Initial evidence suggests that EAL pupils that used Lexia made on average +3 months progress, but further testing is required to confirm this.

These findings achieved a high security rating and the EEF rated Lexia as low cost to implement.

Watch the results explained

 

Want the key findings in just a few minutes?

Watch our short video for a clear overview of the case study results and what they mean for schools. You’ll also hear directly from educators involved in the study as they reflect on their experiences of implementing Lexia Core5 Reading and the impact they observed with their pupils.

 

Download the Evidence Summary

Need to share the findings with senior leaders or colleagues?

Download our Evidence Summary, which highlights the key outcomes from the EEF evaluation in an easy-to-read format.

Meet the participating schools

Behind every piece of evidence are the schools, staff and pupils who brought the research to life.

We visited three schools that took part in the evaluation to hear about their literacy challenges, how they implemented Lexia Core5 Reading and the difference it has made in their settings.

Crockett's Community Primary School, Birmingham

Located in Smethwick, Crocketts' Community Primary School is a two-form entry primary school serving a richly diverse community.

Staff identified many pupils were arriving at school with lower levels of language and literacy development, something they partly attributed to screen use before starting school. The school also supports a high proportion of whose first language is not English.

During the EEF evaluation, staff reported seeing positive progress quickly, including among pupils with significant SEND needs. Following their experience in the study, the school expanded its use of Lexia Core5 Reading across the whole of Year 2 and now also uses the programme as an intervention throughout Key Stage 2.

Warcop CE Primary School, Cumbria

Warcop CE Primary School is a small rural school located in the Eden Valley, with around 85 pupils organised across four mixed-age classes. Like many rural schools, access to larger libraries and literacy resources can be more limited, making targeted reading support especially valuable.

The school noticed a huge impact upon starting the programme, particularly among lower attaining pupils who struggle with reading skills that may not have otherwise been reached in Guided Reading sessions.

Staff found that pupils engaged enthusiastically with Lexia Core5 Reading from the very beginning. Children particularly enjoyed earning certificates, celebrating their achievements and developing a strong sense of ownership over their own learning and progress.

Hill View Infants Academy, Sunderland

Hill View Infants Academy is a large four-form entry infant school in Sunderland, with around 445 pupils.

Although the school has relatively low levels of SEND and Pupil Premium eligibility, many families rely on wraparound childcare due to working commitments. As a results, opportunities for reading practice and homework at home can sometimes be limited.

Staff reported exceptionally strong engagement with Lexia Core5 Reading. Once daily routines were established, pupils became highly motivated to use the programme, with many children regularly asking "When is Lexia?", at the start of the school day.

Experience the research-proven impact in your own school

Independent research has demonstrated the positive impact that Lexia Core5 Reading can have for pupils identified as struggling readers.

Now it's your turn to see how it could support your learners.

Start a 30-day free trial and explore how Lexia can help you deliver structured, personalised reading support that adapts to your pupils' needs.

During your trial you'll have access to:

  • The full Lexia Core5 Reading for up to 250 pupils.
  • Unlimited access to myLexia reporting and progress monitoring tools.
  • Expert guidance from our UK team to help you get started.
  • Everything you need to evaluate the programme in your own setting.

Complete the form below and a member of our team will be in touch to help you get started.

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