How can we ‘Challenge the Gap’?

How can we ‘Challenge the Gap’? Activity: What are the potential barriers facing FSM students in the classroom?

‘Much of the teaching in all key stages and most subjects is outstanding and never less than consistently good. As a result, almost all pupils currently on roll in the school, including disabled pupils, those who have special educational needs, those for whom the pupil premium provides support and the most able, are making rapid and sustained progress.’

So where are we at RWBA?... Overall 5A*-C inc E and MFSM 5A*C inc E and MGAP... • 2011-12 56%42%14% • 2012-13 63%50%13% The average national attainment gap in 2012 was 26%

However... • In core subjects the proportion of FSM students making expected progress was 20% lower than non-FSM students.

Comparisons between schools with differing levels of FSM pupils Maintained mainstream schools excluding grammar schools. 2011 amended data

So what can we do? As teachers we must now: Know who the FSM students are in our classes. (This data is available on the SIMS mark sheets). Know the data – in my class are they making good or outstanding progress? Put in place in-class strategies to support those who are not making good or outstanding progress.

What works? The research evidence “In the classrooms of the most effective teachers, students from disadvantaged backgrounds learn just as much as those from advantaged backgrounds.” Dylan Wiliam (2009) Sources: John Hattie Visible Learning; Education Endowment Foundation Toolkit

Reflection • What do I do/my department do that is likely to support FSM students? • What could I do/my department do that is likely to further support FSM students?

How can we ‘Challenge the Gap’?