Composite Class Information Session 2018 – 2019

Composite Class Information Session 2018 – 2019

In Stirling’s 40 primary schools, 95% organise learning in composite groups.

Overview • What is a composite class? • How are they formed? • Class organisation at Cambusbarron • How composite classes work. • Transition for Children • Frequently asked questions • Summary

What is a composite class? • Composite classes are those where children of more than one year stage are grouped together to form a class. • A composite class can be formed when the numbers at each stage are too small or too large to make up one class at each stage. • Pupils tend to achieve better when class sizes are reduced so composite arrangements, with a maximum class size of 25, can have a positive effect on children.

Class Sizes • P1–class size will be a maximum of 25 for multi-age and for single age groups • P2-3 –class size will be maximum of 25 for composite and 30 for single age groups • P4-7-class size will be a maximum of 25 for composite group classes and 33 for single age classes

Policy for The Organisation of Learning within Clackmannanshire and Stirling Education Service • Age • Gender balance • Additional support needs

Class Organisation 2018-19

Policy for The Organisation of Learning within Stirling Education Service Education Scotland recommends that irrespective of whatever class a child is in, composite or non-composite, teachers have a duty to meet the needs of individual children under Curriculum for Excellence. The quality of the teacher, and specifically of teaching andlearning, are the key points. If undertaken properly, composite classes are neither better nor worse than non-composite classes. The key issue is the management of learning and the learning experience of the child rather than the children being of the same age and having similar levels of academic ability.

Differentiation Differentiation is the process by which differences between learners are accommodated so that all students in a class have the best possible chance of learning. • Task • Group • Resources • Outcome • Dialogue and support • Assessment

Transition for Children • Information leaflet has been produced by the authority - ‘Moving Classes’ to help prepare children for transition from one class to another. Some anxiety and nervousness is to be expected. • Class teachers will share this with their children – parents can access a digital copy on the school website (under Parentzone – Policies & Guidelines). • ‘Meet the Teacher’ is an opportunity for all children to meet their new class mates and their teacher – this lasts approximately an hour – Thursday 21st June. • Enhanced transition arrangements are in place where appropriate. If you feel this is appropriate for your child then discuss with Mr Hill.

FAQ – How do you teach two different stages in the one class? • All classes are multi age classes with very varying levels of ability/needs. Composite classes provide no more or less challenge for a Teacher. • Curriculum for Excellence promotes fluid learning irrespective of a child’s age. • Differentiation in planning, input, outcome, support etc.

FAQ – Will my child be forgotten about and miss a year of school, or repeat a year? • No. All children are held in our management system which states the year/stage they are in, no matter which class • Teachers treat children as individuals irrespective of their age/stage and take them forward from where they are in their learning • Teachers are very clear about the stage of children in their class

FAQ – Will my child’s confidence be affected due to being in with another class? • In our experience this is not the case. Children form relationships with the children in their class but are free to mix with other children at playtimes/lunchtimes. • Teachers monitor children closely and if there were any issue would notify SMT and parents and support provided • Parents / Carers play a huge role in this.

FAQ – Will my child remain in this class their whole primary school career? • Classes cannot be predicted and can only be constructed each year as the new intake enrol • The make –up of any child’s class can change at any time during their primary school years • Children benefit from learning with different children and these important skills for life are then applied in High School • Experience tells us that children in composite classes form new friendships and maintain existing ones

FAQ – What if I do not want my child in a composite class? • We take very careful consideration when making up each class and follow Stirling Council policy which is age, gender balance and additional need • You are entitled to raise your concerns with the Authority who will ensure policy has been followed. Call Sarah Anderson, Education Link Officer on 01786 233023

FAQ – My child is in P3/4. What are arrangements for lunchtime? • P3 children will go for lunch with the P1-P3’s. P4 children will go for lunch with the P4-P7’s • P2-7 children line up in their Houses at break and lunchtime

Summary • Each child will proceed through the Curriculum for Excellence at the level appropriate for them regardless of whether or not they are in a composite or single year stage class. • Composite classes are becoming the norm in the majority of primary schools • Cross stage learning is encouraged in both composite and straight classes

Thank you for you time. Questions…?

Composite Class Information Session 2018 – 2019