The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) is an independent worldwide research study, taking place every five years and providing data about trends in reading literacy over time. It assesses the knowledge and skills of pupils aged 9–10 in 57 countries. PIRLS 2021 updates the picture of performance from 2016 and this key insights briefing summarises the key findings from the study in Northern Ireland, which was administered by NFER on behalf of the Department of Education.
Due to the school disruptions and closures caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, PIRLS 2021 data collection extended over 22 months. Pupils in Northern Ireland were at the beginning of Year 7, as opposed to the end of Year 6 as for many other countries and, on average, four to five months older in PIRLS 2021 compared to previous cycles. The change in timing introduced additional factors that may affect overall attainment.
