Synthetic Phonics is pretty much the same as the original phonics. My mum was roundly castigated by 'educationalists' many years ago for using this system, as it was no longer fashionable; this despite her brilliant results, especially with kids who were struggling to grasp reading at all. My theory on why they have renamed the system is that the same educationalists now have to support something they castigated (in order to keep their jobs) and the new name enables them to save face. Phonics is easy to teach, and resonates quickly with kids, especially those who struggle. For once, a good, well-thought out piece of educational policy.
Tim