About PIRLS

PIRLS 2026 Northern Ireland
Progress in International Reading Literacy Study
National Research Centre for Northern Ireland

The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study, known as “PIRLS”, is an international comparative study that assesses and compares the reading performance of pupils at about age 10, or Primary Year 6 in Northern Ireland, every five years across about 60 countries. It provides internationally comparative data on pupils’ achievement in reading, and how their performance is related to their attitudes, gender and background. In addition, PIRLS includes questionnaires for teachers and Principals, which provide a valuable perspective on teaching reading and the school environment.

What does PIRLS consist of?

PIRLS consists of four components in Northern Ireland:

  • An onscreen reading assessment for pupils.
  • A background questionnaire for pupils.
  • A questionnaire for teachers.
  • A school questionnaire for Principals.

For more information and links to example items:

See our FAQs

How is PIRLS delivered?

PIRLS is delivered by a National Study Centre in each participating country. Pearson have been appointed as the PIRLS 2026 National Study Centre by the Department of Education in Northern Ireland. Pearson will work with schools to deliver the study, managing the administration, processing and scoring of the PIRLS 2026 assessment.
 

Meet the team Find out more about PIRLS