This article argues that the English spelling system makes it harder for kids to learn. There are comparisons with systems in other countries -- but notably little about non-phonetic, logogram-based systems like Chinese (where symbols for words or concepts need to be learned, quite separate from their pronunciation). It leads towards an interesting revision and simplification of the spelling system on phonemic principles -- which looks like it'd be a disaster practically, but understanding its core ideas is certainly good for your grasp of phonology.
http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2015/02/how-the-english-language-is-holding-kids-back/385291/
http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2015/02/how-the-english-language-is-holding-kids-back/385291/
