Mixed Year Group Teaching

We currently have 60 children per year group in KS2.  Our pupil admission number changed to 45 children, meaning that we have mixed year group teaching in Key stage 1.

Over the next few years, the school will transition to mixed-year classes. The school will be organised into stages, rather than single year groups. Each stage spans two year groups.  This is a gradual process, with Year 3 and 4 transitioning to mixed year groups, in September 2026 the school will look like this:

EYFS 

• One nursery class 

• 2 reception classes 

Key stage 1 

• Year 1 and 2 children 
• 3 x mixed year 1/2 classes 

Lower key stage 2 (Changing to mixed classes): 

• Year 3 and 4 children 
• 3 x mixed year 3/4 classes 

Upper key stage 2 

• 2 x Year 5 classes
• 2 x Year 6 classes

What are the benefits of mixed year group teaching?

• Working together, supporting peers: Older pupils often reinforce their own knowledge by helping younger peers, fostering leadership and confidence, while younger children receive tailored support and positive role modeling.
• Collaboration: Mixed age groups provide a broader range of peer interaction, with different classmates, boosting communication and teamwork skills.
• Developing secure relationships and stability: Children often remain with the same teacher for two years, reducing the settling-in period and allowing teachers to have a deeper understanding of each child's academic and emotional needs.
• Increased independence: These classrooms encourage a "family" atmosphere, promoting social and emotional well-being and reducing reliance on direct adult intervention.
• Personalised learning: Teachers and TAs can focus on a child's individual stage of development rather than just age-related expectations, offering opportunities for faster learners to extend their knowledge and others to take their time.