Our Aims

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We currently have:

Two mixed year classes in Reception / Year 1 (Oak class) and Year 1/2 (Willow class).

The National Curriculum splits its programmes of study in Key Stage 2, into a Lower key stage 2 (years 3 & 4) and an Upper key stage 2 (years 5 & 6). 

In Key Stage 2, we have a mixed year class in Year 5/6

We separate the Key Stages and would prefer not to teach a class across Key Stage 1 and 2 (i.e. a Year 2/3 class) or across the Upper and Lower Key Stage two (i.e. a Year 4/5 class) because of the way the National Curriculum is planned.

 Our priorities as a school are to ensure all pupils make progress academically, that they are safe and that their experience at the school is one to remember positively.  There is no evidence to suggest that being in a mixed year class has any detrimental effect on the education of children in that class.

Our teachers and planned curriculum ensure that teachers skilfully aim lesson content at the different year groups in each class. Mixed-year classes enable teachers to revisit simpler content with pupils who need it. Ofsted report that mixed year groups benefit pupils, as the mix of ability actually helps children to learn better and quicker.

• Teachers regularly assess pupils, both informally (from day to day) and formally (with tests and other assessments). Where pupils need extra help we work on creative ways to support this. This could be in class or through intervention groups. This is the same whether within a mixed or single year class.
• Teachers regularly compare books across the team to compare outcomes and develop consistency between different teachers.
• Members of the Leadership Team frequently monitor lessons and books, and this includes observations of lessons. Where things could be improved, staff are supported in this.
• Twice a year we hold Pupil Progress Meetings which focus on monitoring assessment information and ensuring that pupils are making the progress we expect based on their previous attainment. Information from these meetings is shared with Governors as part of their monitoring role.
• Staff Appraisals are linked to pupils outcomes, progress over time, and progress towards targets.