FPQ Sarah Awwad Cranleigh Prep School The process

FPQ Sarah Awwad Cranleigh Prep School The process so far

What we need to take into account § Many pupils do not have the basic necessary IT skills they will need in their research (creating folders; creating tables; diagrams…) § Many pupils have reading difficulties and will need a great deal of support and help choosing materials that they can access successfully. § There is a need for a great deal of scaffolding of work and instruction prior to commencement of independent tasks. § Staff need the support and to feel comfortable with what they are teaching; the slower pace allows those less confident to ensure that they are familiar with materials.

What we need to take into account § The slower pace allows the staff to offer excellent quality support and instruction. § The slower pace allows staff to plan effectively and provide the necessary support to both staff and children. § More group based work has proved beneficial for both staff and pupils. Feedback is positive: this type of activity promotes collaboration at all levels. Staff feel that they are pooling expertise and sharing good practice and knowledge. § The general feeling is that we need to continue focusing on developing the skills rather than focussing on the project as such: that will come as the children develop their skills.

Impact of Tweaking the Model on Staff § Feel more in control of what they are doing as the process has been broken down into manageable components allowing teachers the time to learn the new skills they need to help them instruct the pupils. § Staff feel that they have the time now to engage with pupils more and have the necessary discussions that will help those pupils develop their skills. § Staff feel that we are doing now is more meaningful and that the focus on developing skills is hugely beneficial for children § There is time now to address the gaps that pupils have with I. T skills

Impact of Tweaking the Model on Pupils § Happier as each feels that he/she can progress at his/ her own rate § Lessons are structured in a way that allow the pupils to collaborate and work in teams § More discussion and group work in the initial phase has really helped the pupils understand what they will be doing § They feel supported in developing their I. T skills § They are happy that their work will be acknowledged for the effort they put in and that the focus is on the development of skills rather than on the final grade. § It is excellent to see that pupils are using the library for research and are looking at what books are available to help them with their work.

§ As of 2019, the Edexcel Foundation Stage FPQ will cease to exist. Discussion to put in place alternative arrangements are underway.