Mixed Year 1 and 2 Classes and Year 3 and 4 Classes:

A Positive Change for Your Child

At Springfield, we continually strive to provide the best possible education and learning experiences for your children. In response to parents’ questions and concerns, here is an explanation regarding our decision for making the move to mixed year group classes in Years 1&2 and Years 3&4, one that is driven by research and a deep commitment to your child's academic and personal growth.

We understand that change can sometimes raise questions and concerns, especially when it comes to your child's education. This change is not a step backward but a significant stride forward in enhancing the educational experience for your child.

We want to emphasise that the decision to place your child in a class with pupils from a different year group is not a reflection of their academic ability. All children develop at different rates, and our goal is to provide the best learning environment for each and every child. Your child's placement in their class is the result of careful consideration of the environment that will best support their growth.

By combining Year 1 and 2, and Year 3 and 4 children, we can better tailor our teaching methods to meet the unique learning needs of each child. 

Here are the key benefits:

Mixed-age classes create opportunities for older pupils to ‘buddy up’ and mentor younger ones, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership, while younger pupils benefit from their older peers' guidance and support.

Interacting with children of different ages helps them develop essential social and emotional skills. They learn to communicate effectively, build empathy, and develop a broader perspective on the world around them.

The evidence shows that pupils in mixed-age classes tend to:

Develop better self-esteem and confidence.

Exhibit increased enthusiasm for learning.

Experience a smoother transition between year group levels.

Your child will be taught the curriculum for their year group:

Our curriculum and delivery is designed to challenge and engage at each appropriate year group level, and all pupils are taught the curriculum for their own year group within the mixed class. English and Maths is taught in small groups called ‘Core Skills groups’, ensuring that each child, within their year group, is appropriately challenged and motivated to excel.

We hope your questions and concerns have been answered!

Rest assured that at Springfield, we are committed to providing a nurturing and enriching environment that fosters the development of your child. Our decision to introduce mixed Year 1 and 2 classes and Year 3 and 4 classes is purely driven by our unwavering dedication to their success and well-being.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs Shelley with any further questions or concerns you may have.

Thank you for entrusting us with the education of your precious children! 😊