At Monster Phonics, we believe that every child deserves the very best start in their reading journey — and that starts with a well-trained, confident teaching team. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive, structured training offer that empowers schools to deliver high-quality phonics instruction with consistency and clarity. 

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your phonics practice to the next level, our Monster Phonics Training Tree supports educators at every stage of their journey — with certified, flexible training that drives real impact. 

But first, let’s explore why training isn’t just important — it’s essential. 

Why is training so important? 

Structured, systematic teaching is at the heart of successful phonics delivery — but without the right training, even the best programmes can fall short. Here’s why high-quality professional development matters: 

1. Consistency across the school

For a systematic synthetic phonics (SSP) programme to be effective, it must be delivered consistently by every adult in the school. Training ensures: 

• Shared use of language, routines, and strategies. 
• Seamless progression across year groups and interventions. 
• A unified approach that supports all learners. 

2. Confidence in instruction

Not all staff arrive with a background in phonics. Training builds confidence by: 

• Clarifying key terminology and pedagogy. 
• Explaining the why behind each routine. 
• Supporting teachers and assistants in delivering with assurance. 

3. Improved pupil outcomes

When staff understand and implement phonics effectively, children make faster, more secure progress. Training helps ensure: 

• Stronger blending and segmenting skills. 
• Effective assessment and intervention. 
• Fewer gaps and greater reading fluency. 

4. Ongoing professional growth

Quality phonics training supports long-term development, not just short-term fixes. It: 

• Provides clear progression routes. 
• Keeps staff up to date with best practice and research. 
• Encourages reflective teaching and continual improvement. 

5. Empowering the whole team

Training isn’t just for classroom teachers — it’s for everyone involved in phonics and early reading. With whole-staff training, schools benefit from: 

• Aligned delivery from all adults. 
• Effective intervention and catch-up support. 
• A cohesive and confident literacy team. 

Introducing the Monster Phonics Training Tree 

To meet the needs of schools across the UK and around the world, we’ve developed the Monster Phonics Training Tree — structured, certified training pathways designed to build staff confidence, competence, and consistency at every level.  

This compulsory route for all Monster Phonics schools supports onboarding, whole-school development, and specialist growth. 

Phonics Fundamentals  

Our self-paced, introductory course — perfect for educators new to phonics or those refreshing their knowledge. You’ll cover: 

• What phonics is and why it’s essential. 
• Key concepts behind systematic synthetic phonics. 
• Terminology, pure sounds, and foundational routines. 

It’s the first step in building a confident, knowledgeable team. 

Core Team Training  

These three certified courses bring your staff together to build a cohesive, school-wide approach. It includes: 

• Practical, step-by-step guidance for delivering Monster Phonics lessons. 
• Insights into lesson structure, progression, and fidelity. 
• Tools to ensure consistent, high-impact delivery across classrooms. 

This essential group training forms the heart of a successful phonics strategy. 

Specialised Pathways 

Our third tier offers in-depth, role- and setting-specific training — supporting specialist development and classroom excellence. Pathways include: 

• Reception to Year 2 – Deepen understanding of SSP delivery and progression. 
• KS2 – Address catch-up needs with targeted intervention and bridging strategies. 
• Teaching Assistants – Equip support staff to run effective interventions and in-class assistance. 
• Leadership – Learn to drive implementation, lead training, and evaluate success. 
• Inclusion– Develop inclusive phonics practices for SEND pupils and those learning EAL, ensuring all children access phonics effectively. 
• International Schools – Tailored training for multilingual classrooms, global curricula, and diverse learner needs. 

Each pathway provides certified, flexible learning that responds to your staff’s roles and responsibilities — now and in the future. 

A training partnership, not just a programme… 

At Monster Phonics, we don’t just deliver courses — we walk with you every step of the way. Our training support includes:  

• Initial planning meetings with leadership. 
• Regular check-ins and drop-ins throughout your journey. 
• Expert guidance when you need it. 

Our mission is to build confident, capable, and collaborative phonics teams who can deliver outstanding reading outcomes for all pupils. 

What sets our training apart? 

• Essential training for all Monster Phonics schools. 
• Structured, step-by-step development for individuals and teams. 
• Tailored pathways to suit every role, setting, and experience level. 
• Bite-sized sessions that fit into even the busiest schedules. 
• Certified CPD to enrich your teaching portfolio and school development plan. 
• Global accessibility, adaptable for schools around the world. 

Ready to take the next step? 

Training isn’t a box to tick — it’s the foundation of great teaching. With the Monster Phonics Training Tree, we help schools create a culture of literacy excellence, where every educator is equipped, every lesson is purposeful, and every child has the chance to thrive. 

So dive into our new training materials and let’s grow together — from fundamentals to expertise — and build a future of fluent, confident readers and writers.