Extra Maths Classes for Yr 6 Sats

[Addictedtothepc]

How common is it for primary schools to offer after school Maths tuition/club to about half of the year group (starting next term) in an effort to improve Sats results.

Does your school do this? Do you think it's a good idea?

DC's primary offered a breakfast SATs club which was open to all the class. Both DCs went willingly, and last year only one child didn't go in the class of 30. As long as the children are happy do go I don't see a problem with it.

My DD's school have offered 'booster' clases for both numeracy and literacy, however this is not available to all only the pupils they feel need more assistance.

My thoughts are that although my DD has not been asked to attend these additional classes, I feel the choice should be given to all and certain children shouldn't be singled out. I'm sure this can't do much for a childs confidence and could also encourage bullying amoungst their peers. My DD has shown some interest in attending just to help ease her slight anxiety.

I do think there is an awful amount of pressure on children regarding the SAT's and truly for whose benefit are they for? To tick a box to achieve a Goverment target? or for the child?...

Apparently, there are some schools who are boycotting the SAT's altogether as they do not see the purpose of them...

My DDs' primary school does booster maths sessions when the SATs are getting near, and I believe it is offered to all Year 6 kids, not just those who are struggling. I think it's quite a good idea.

Just to make a point to PetrusPoo my DD's school actually do call them booster classes, therefore in my situation they are two of the same thing...

The traditionally moderate NAHT and the NUT have joined forces to vote to boycott them this year, Summertimefizz. The results are due soon. Fingers crossed....

I hate schools that put pressure on the children and make them stressed. I teach year 6 and try so hard to make sure that the children don't feel extra pressure. Although it is really difficult with the pressure that is put on schools to ensure they have wonderful SATs results.

Anyway - most schools run 'Booster Classes' for year 6. They do vary in who they are run for. Sorry Summertimefizz, but I'm afraid that my after school booster sessions aren't open to everyone. I select those children who are working around a level 3/ low 4 - i.e need a bit of an extra push to get a level 4. I don't include children with severe special needs as I'd have to differentiate the booster class for their needs (I don't have time to do this, remember I'm already teaching 5 maths lessons a week and planning for their special needs) therefore I don't think they'd gain anything from the booster class - the work would be too hard for them and just leave them feeling lost. Also, they are the children who get lots of in-class support anyway and SENCO group time. I also don't include children who are already working at a secure level 4/5. The lessons are pitched below their level so they'd just be bored. I ensure that I stretch them during lessons and I run a club for the gifted and talent children anyway.

Obviously some schools/teachers open theirs to everyone but I don't see that as the purpose of a Booster Class - that would just be an extra maths lesson to me. I use Booster Classes to target specific needs.

PetrusPoo - the one-one tuition is completely different and has nothing to do with SATs or year 6. Teachers get paid for one-one sessions - as you said, funded by the government. Booster classes are just down to the teacher to volunteer to run (although it's more of an expectation than a voluntary thing - but certainly no pay for it!)

Oh and I have never experienced any bullying directed at children who attend Booster Classes. I have 14 in mine (about 2/3 of the class). Therefore there is a wide range of friendship groups and 'popular' children represented. By the time they get to year 6 it's just normal for people to be of different abilities. Any aspect of school could be a source of bullying: children sitting in ability groups; special needs groups; sports teams; etc

Really cat64? Well they're certainly the norm in my LA.

I completely agree. My feeling is that you should be teaching everything you need to in normal class lessons. But like I say, it isn't really optional for me. I'd much rather be using the time to run an extra sports club after school.