The Phonics and Early Reading Assessment (PERA) is matched to the Letters and Sounds framework and the requirements of the Year 1 "phonics screen" - statutory from summer 2012 - as well as to the teaching and assessment needs of schools both before and after the statutory test. PERA uses words and non-words (or pseudo-words) to assess both phonic knowledge and use of phonics for reading, plus reading accuracy and comprehension. It also includes an informal pre-phonics assessment to help assess the earliest stages of reading. PERA Test 1, for use at the end of Reception and the first half of Year 1 (i.e. during the first four terms in school), covers phases 2-4 and into 5 of Letters and Sounds and provides detailed diagnostic information to inform teaching in the Foundation Stage. PERA Test 2 assesses phases 3-5 and into 6 of Letters and Sounds, making it ideal for familiarisation purposes before the "phonics screen" in the Year 1 summer term. It also provides a framework for re-testing, to ensure progress is monitored and maintained throughout Year 2. These child-friendly tests are presented individually and orally, using illustrated, full-colour reusable cards. Parallel forms A and B allow upto four separate assessments to inform individual teaching and monitor each pupil"s progress from the Foundation Stage and into Key Stage 1. Each test takes about 10 minutes per child. The teacher notes the child"s responses on a record sheet that is purpose-designed for easy marking (including miscue analysis) and diagnostic profiling. The manual provides extensive guidance for sharply focused teaching follow-up. PERA has been standardised on over 3500 pupils to provide norms - as "ages" and standardised scores - which are reliable and fully up to date.