New move for mix and match at Poulner Infants (From Bournemouth Echo)

New move for mix and match at Poulner Infants

7:00pm Wednesday 8th July 2009 in

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POULNER Infant School is the latest in Hampshire to merge its Years One and Two to improve pupil’s academic and social development.

Currently the school has two Year One classes, two Year Two classes and a mixed Year One/Two class.

From September all five classes will mix children aged between five and seven years old.

The mix and match scheme was drawn up by governors and staff, and its advantages was explained to parents at a meeting.

Parents were told:

• Research shows children develop better socially when they interact with younger or older children.

• It will create conditions which motivate children to make progress and allows for more flexibility to meet changing needs of pupils.

• Greater levels of pupil progress and achievement will follow.

• Children benefit from becoming “an expert” and Year Two children enjoy acting as role models.

• Classes will provide more opportunities for mixed social, ability, age and other groupings.

• Teaching can be personalised by development, not just age.

• Friendships can spread across age ranges, reflecting society.

• There will be one topic across the whole of the key stage, developing an inclusive curriculum.

• There will be a greater sense of community.