FFT Reading Quest

Reading intervention for struggling older readers

Product Type: Software

Location: UK

Age Range: 7-1111-13

Platform: PCOffline

Environment: Classroom

Subject Area

Reading Quest

Helping older pupils build strong foundations in reading

Reading Quest is a targeted phonics and decoding programme developed specifically for older students in upper Key Stage 2 and lower Key Stage 3 who need support with early reading skills. Whether pupils are new to phonics, have gaps due to missed learning, or need additional fluency practice, Reading Quest offers a structured pathway to catch up and thrive.

The programme is designed to help students access the wider curriculum by rebuilding core reading skills. Each 30-minute lesson is easy to deliver and includes clear planning, teaching the phonic code alongside common exception words and key reading strategies. Students then apply these skills through carefully chosen texts, writing tasks, and spelling activities. Lessons can be delivered one-to-one or in small groups, making Reading Quest a flexible intervention tool.

Reading Quest is suitable for a wide range of learners, including students who did not meet reading expectations in primary school, those who are new to English or the UK school system, and pupils with significant gaps due to absence. The texts and activities are age-appropriate, ensuring older students remain engaged while receiving the phonics support they need.

Using FFT’s online assessment tool, staff can identify specific gaps in students’ phonics knowledge, allowing learners to begin at the most appropriate point in the programme. A matching digital platform supports practice both in and out of school, helping to build fluency and confidence.

Created by experienced educators, Reading Quest provides everything needed to support reading catch-up: straightforward lesson plans, training, and high-quality resources. The cumulative structure means students can see and feel their progress, while teachers can be confident they’re building essential reading skills in a way that respects and engages older learners.

Costs: £750 per annum

Subscriptions from £750
Annual subscription, excl VAT

A straightforward annual subscription provides schools with access to Reading Quest, including training and support.

Online reading catch-up and assessment tools are also included, creating a complete literacy solution for your KS2 & KS3 pupils.

Trial Options: Get in touch to discuss trial options.

FAQs

QHow many students can use the programme?: ASchools can choose how many students use the programme, as this is solely dependent on how many students need support. We suggest that students work in small groups with similar reading needs (as identified in the diagnostic assessment) or, where necessary, one-to-one.
QCan we begin using Reading Quest at any time of the academic year?: AYes, of course. Providing support for students will be a priority for you, so we have designed the programme to be easy to start and use at any time of the year. Our training, support, guidance, and digital resources will mean you can get going quickly.
QWhat skills does the programme target?: AFFT Reading Quest supports students who struggle with decoding and fluency, enabling them to regain lost ground and access the wider curriculum by plugging gaps in the phonics code as well as the application of the code to reading and spelling. The programme also revisits Common Exception Words, which are often a challenge for pupils as they are high-frequency words but do not follow the phonetic code. Later in the programme, we also ensure that children are confident in reading multisyllabic words. Following a detailed analysis of the evidence and research, we have also included words that students are statistically most likely to need to be able to read from day to day. One of the key advantages of Reading Quest is that you also have full access to a bespoke online assessment programme. This assessment tool is easy to use and provides instant, precise identification of pupils’ gaps in reading skills, allowing teachers to tailor their instruction accordingly. By teaching students at the highest point in the programme, Phonics Quest ensures that they receive targeted and effective support. Students will develop both decoding and reading fluency, allowing them to bridge the gap and succeed academically.
QIs the training and support online or in school?: AAs part of a subscription, we provide a structured online training programme for teachers, teaching assistants and school leaders that can be accessed both live and on-demand. These sessions will include a session for an in-school lead on how to set up the programme, organise training and answer other key questions to ensure you get off to the best start. You can also opt for in school training and support at any point during your subscription. (Face-to-face training is available at an additional cost.) We provide a comprehensive menu of ongoing training and support for schools using the programme and offer regular events that are open to any schools.
QCan a teaching assistant teach the programme?: AYes, our ongoing training, support and guidance will ensure all those teaching the programme are confident and skilled in supporting weaker readers to catch up.
QHow long are the sessions and how many sessions are there per week?: AWe know that intervention time is precious, so each session has been designed to last no longer than 30 minutes. The duration depends on each pupil’s starting place. Some pupils might only need to be supported by the programme for a few weeks; others may need two or three terms or longer.