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The Learning Zone

Why was this partnership activity necessary - concerns, aims, difficulties etc?
Our aims were to:
a) raise pupil attainment in key areas
b) employ improved teaching strategies
c) continue the momentum achieved by Early Intervention.

Where does this partnership operate?
P4/5 classes of Edenside PS, Kelso, led by one Senior Teacher.

When does this work happen?
Four blocks of 6-8 weeks, twice a week for 45 mins each time (except one zone - see other page).

How does the scheme work? How is it maintained, sustained and evaluated?
The four classes are grouped mainly by ability (see other page) to allow appropriate differentiation. Extra staff (NT, STLS, Sp Aux, CA, parents) allow the full range to be catered for. Groups and rotas are drawn up by the ST & HT. Regular meetings are held after school to plan and evaluate work. The HT monitored the work too. Staff researched current ideas on good practice.

What are the benefits? What difference does this partnership make?
Levels of progress across the full range improved substantially. Key children responded expectionally well to the focussed approach. Standards and confidence levels were raised in problem solving. Children enjoyed the variety.

1.10 Edenside Primary School, Borders