About PIRLS

PIRLS 2026 England
Progress in International Reading Literacy Study
National Research Centre for England

PIRLS 2026 England

What is PIRLS?

The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study, known as “PIRLS”, is an international comparative study that assesses and compares the reading performance of pupils at about age 10, or year five in England, every five years across about 60 countries. England has taken part in every cycle of the study since 2001. It provides internationally comparative data on pupils’ achievement in reading, and how their performance is related to their attitudes, gender and background. In addition, PIRLS includes questionnaires for teachers and headteachers, which provide a valuable perspective on teaching reading and the school environment.

There are two types of PIRLS assessments happening in England; onscreen (called the main study) and on paper (called the National Comparison Study). Schools will only be selected for one of these, not both, and it will be clear from the early communications which study a school has been selected for.

Find out more about the National Comparison Study

All other detail on this website will refer to the main study.

A pupil working

What does PIRLS consist of?

PIRLS consists of four components in England:

  • An onscreen reading assessment for pupils.
  • A background questionnaire for pupils.
  • A questionnaire for teachers.
  • A school questionnaire for headteachers.

For more information and links to example items:

See our FAQs

How is PIRLS delivered?

PIRLS is delivered by a National Study Centre in each participating country. Pearson and Oxford University Centre for Educational Assessment (OUCEA) have been appointed as the PIRLS 2026 National Study Centre for England by the Department for Education. Pearson will work with schools to deliver the study, managing the administration, processing and scoring of the PIRLS 2026 assessment. OUCEA will be responsible for the reporting and dissemination of the findings in England.

Meet the team

Find out more about PIRLS

Pearson, DfE and the National Year of Reading 2026

The Department for Education, Pearson and the National Literacy Trust are working in partnership throughout 2026 to celebrate and strengthen children’s reading journeys. This collaboration coincides with the administration of the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS 2026), the international assessment that measures how well pupils near the end of primary school are developing the reading skills vital for success in education and life.

As well as being the National Research Centre for PIRLS 2026 in England, Pearson are a sponsor of the National Year of Reading, supporting schools, teachers and pupils with national priorities for literacy and attainment and highlighting the importance of reading as both a personal joy and a foundation for learning across the curriculum.

The National Year of Reading provides an inspiring platform to engage families, schools and communities in celebrating books, stories and the power of reading. Evidence from PIRLS data has been instrumental in highlighting the importance of promoting  a culture of reading for pleasure and shining a spotlight on the achievements of pupils across England.

National Year of Reading

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