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'Mixed' classes earn top grade

Sam Kirby
6/ 3/2008

AN ECCLES school has been praised by Ofsted for a unique scheme which sees children of all ages in one class together.

St Patrick’s RC High School, in Guilford Road, earned an ‘outstanding’ grade in their report after inspectors paid a visit.

Pupils at the school start the day in a mixed age form class, with ages ranging from 11 - 17.

Teachers at St Patrick’s say the mixed age system helps younger children settle in while providing older children with the responsibility of a mentoring role.

Furthermore, the classes have been made smaller with groups of 22.

Headteacher Barbara Rogers said: "We have around four students from each of the five year groups in each class.

"It has given teachers the chance to get to know the students better.

"They don’t just take a register but speak to the pupils and check on their progress.

"It is a family approach where younger students look up to the older ones who have, in turn, responded by helping them learn."

The scheme began in September and sees the pupils spend the first half hour of the day in their mixed age form groups discussing issues such as bullying before moving on to subject based classes with pupils their own age.

Just a few years ago, GCSE results had fallen well below the national average with only 27 per cent achieving five A*-C’s in 2004.

However, they are now among the most improved in the country with 58 per cent achieving good grades last summer.

During the visit earlier this year the inspectors report said: "Attendance is good and behaviour outstanding. Care, guidance and support are exemplary.

"This is all achieved within an environment that promotes excellent relationships and respect for others."

The 900-pupil school is also due for a refurbishment as part of a £110m rebuilding programme.

Click on the video window for Channel M's report ...