These levels introduce less common spelling patterns and consolidate advanced decoding strategies. Children practise applying phonics knowledge independently when reading longer and more challenging words.
Levels 18, 19 & 20
Alternative Spelling – Set 5
Levels 18, 19, and 20 complete the advanced phonics programme by focusing on less common and more complex alternative spellings. At this stage, children consolidate their understanding of how the same sounds can be represented in multiple ways, enabling them to read and spell with confidence across a wide range of texts. These levels support fluent, accurate, and independent reading.
Learning continues to be supported by interactive phonics games on iOS and Android, ensuring structured practice and mastery.
Completion of Levels 1A–17, or equivalent phonics and reading knowledge, is recommended.
What Will My Child Learn in Level 18, 19 & 20?
In Levels 18, 19, and 20, children explore advanced alternative spellings for vowel and r-controlled sounds.
Alternative Spellings Covered
• oo, ew, ue, u_e
• u, oo, oul
• ar, a
Children learn to:
• Recognise less common spelling patterns in reading
• Understand how the same sound can be spelled in multiple ways
• Apply flexible decoding strategies to unfamiliar words
• Read longer and more complex words with confidence
Key Skills Your Child Will Develop
By the end of these levels, your child will be able to:
• Read words with advanced spelling patterns accurately
• Decode unfamiliar vocabulary using phonics knowledge
• Improve fluency, confidence, and reading independence
• Strengthen spelling awareness for complex sound patterns
These skills are essential for confident reading across all subjects.
Learning Through Games & Practice
All spelling patterns taught in Levels 18, 19, and 20 are reinforced through interactive games and structured activities on iOS and Android.
Children practise by:
• Comparing different spellings for the same sound
• Reading words and texts in context
• Repeating activities that build automatic recognition and accuracy
The guided, game-based approach ensures consolidation while keeping learning engaging.
Who Is This Level For?
• Children who have completed Levels 1A–17
• Fluent readers refining accuracy and spelling knowledge
• Children preparing for independent reading across a wide range of texts
These levels are ideal for children completing their phonics journey and moving confidently into advanced literacy.
Why These Levels Are Important
Levels 18, 19, and 20 address some of the most challenging spelling patterns in English. Mastering these alternatives ensures children can read fluently, spell accurately, and approach unfamiliar words with confidence—skills that are essential for long-term academic success and lifelong reading.
Please note: The pricing plans below apply only to Phase 5 (Levels 18, 19 & 20). Children will learn the following graphemes and phonemes: oo, ew, ue, u_e, u, oo, oul, ar, a, with regular review sessions built in. This phase is typically taught over 12 sessions, each lasting 30–40 minutes: 9 teaching sessions plus 3 dedicated review sessions to support consolidation and confidence.
