Independent evidence review of literacy resources and programmes in Wales (2026)

Literacy in Wales: An evidence review of literacy support, reading engagement and resource access 

The research was designed to strengthen understanding of the current landscape of literacy resources used by learners and practitioners in Wales. 

The study examined the evidence on effective literacy interventions and programmes, and the ways in which children and young people, practitioners, parents and carers engage with literacy initiatives in practice.  

The research sits within Adnodd’s wider role in supporting high-quality, adaptable and user-friendly educational resources in Welsh and English. In the context of literacy, this includes resources that support the Curriculum for Wales, respond to different learner needs and help create the conditions for children and young people to develop as confident, motivated and capable readers, writers and communicators.  

The study focused on two connected areas: 

1. Examining existing evidence on literacy resources, interventions and programmes, including approaches aimed at improving literacy outcomes across different ages and stages.
2. Exploring user experiences of literacy initiatives in practice. 

Thanks to colleagues from the following organisations for your valuable input to the research: 

1. Books Council of Wales 
2. BookTrust Cymru 
3. CAL:ON Cymru, Bangor University 
4. Connor Allen 
5. Dysgu 
6. Ein Llais Ni, Bangor University 
7. Estyn 
8. Gwasg Carreg Gwalch 
9. Libraries and archives, Welsh Government 
10. Literature Wales 
11. Love Reading, Cardiff University 
12. The National Centre for Learning Welsh
13. Peniarth 
14. S4C  
15. Show Racism the Red Card 
16. Sion Tomos Owen 

Read the full summary report here: