quick beginning of term question - y4 new class teacher - seating plan - curious

[SarfEast1cated]

Hi all, not a vital issue, but DD is sat on a table of boys away from her friends. The teacher specified where they should all sit, but there doesn't seem to be any logic behind it - ie not alphabetical, not in groups they were in last year... They stayed in the same table all day.
Do you think he just has them in random groups until he works out where he wants them long term?
How does in normally work? I think he is a TeachFirst teacher if that info is pertinent...

[alafolie29]

It could be absolutely anything. Completely random, ability but you just don't realise, mixing up friends/children who don't get on, a spread of ability per table, moving certain children to be nearer the board or whatever...

They're not in tables of 4 by any chance?

[SarfEast1cated]

Nope tables of 6. Near the board could be a thing though as DD wears glasses..
Things seem very emotional at the moment with DD, but I will attempt to soothe!
Thanks alafolie29 :D

[Longlost10]

ability, mixed ability, random, SEN, distance from board, interests, behavior, friendship groups, separating troublemakers, birthdays, specific needs, specific abilities, confidence, progress, targets, VA, it could be anything.

[SarfEast1cated]

Thanks longlost that's interesting.

[SarfEast1cated]

Thanks Miaow.
DD (rather swotty) already suffers with not being part of the girls gang, so being put on a table with ('naughty') boys makes her feel even more sidelined. Oh the angst! I thought children were generally uncomplicated and robust until I had my own.
Can't really mention it at school without coming across as a complete PIA, so will have to just be supportive.

[EllyMayClampett]

I'd talk to the teacher and explain your DD's feelings (quite normal, I think.) sometimes young teachers who don't have children of their own aren't sensitive to these things. But, if you explain politely and respectfully, they will understand and make reasonable changes.

I wouldn't worry about being seen as "that parent." You won't be, but if you are, do what? You are there to advocate and protect your DD. If that means the teacher sees you as a pain, tough.

[SarfEast1cated]

I'm sure you're on the edge of your seats, but DD has decided she is happy on her new table. Was mostly irked because BFF was sitting with a a boy she like and plays with and DD was worried she would be left out :(
all ok now though - thanks for your help.

[wayway13]

When I was a similar age I was put at a table of naughty boys as a "calming influence". I didn't like it and it wasn't fair. They drew willies in my exercise books. If your DD is happy now then great but feel free to kick off. Being punished for being "good" isn't on. I may be projecting 30-year-old issues though

[EllyMayClampett]

I'm glad it all worked out.

Just a general comment giving little girls the message that a boys' bad behaviour is their problem to deal with, and something they have to put up with and not make a fuss about:
www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-37338712

[Lonecatwithkitten]

From year 4 DD was moved every few weeks so everybody in the class got to work together at some point. I explained that in life sometimes you have to work with people you don't get on with. Only once have I brought it up and it was when the child she was sat next to was belittling her for not understanding new maths immediately.