Which is better?

[BattyKoda]

Primary school or First then Middle school?

Curious of opinion really, I know it will depend on the school, but generally, what do you think are pro's and con's for both?

Personal preference I guess. Less transition with primary so they can know the pupil better, but separate schools cab be more specialised and focused on their stage.

Depends on the type of middle school too - I've had personal experience of the yr6-yr8 type, which essentially meant starting secondary a year early (and was good for languages), but the yr5-yr7/8 in the neighbouring school area was more primary focussed.

Batty - I've worked in both systems, and definitely prefer the primary/secondary model (ie. two tier, rather than three tier).

In the first/middle/high model, the children have an additional transition to make, at a younger age. Also, many/most middle schools, although they were designed to follow a first school model, actually more resemble a secondary school, with multiple teachers etc.

Thank you for your replies!

Littlefish - That was my main concern, the extra transition. What are the benefits of first school/middle school? As in, could the transition be seen as a good thing?

We are possibly moving to an area that has alot of first/middle options, and primary schools seem rare. We will need to think very carefully about where we will be living if we want a primary school.

I think that the supporters of a three tier system feel that although there is an extra transition, the main transition to high school happens a couple of years later than in the primary model.

However, I personally don't feel that this negates the effect of a transition after Yr 4.

Personally, I feel that it is a waste of money and resources for LAs to continue with three tier systems, when the majority of the country, all the government initiatives, support etc. is planned around a two tier system. I feel very strongly that the money would be better spent directly in schools, rather than supporting additional schools and administrations. However, that is my personal view, and I know that there are people who are very happy with the education their children receive in first/middle/high schools.

But there are a lot of infant schools whose pupils all make the transition to junior school and live to tell the tale! I wouldn't make a decision solely on the extra move aspect.

I agree hocus. I am also concerned about the learning/teaching style of some middle schools which, as I said, are more in line with a secondary model, than a primary model.

Oh lordy. I'm really sorry, I've just noticed my username. I changed it for another thread, and forgot to change it back!

Sorry all.

Ha ha, was a bit littlefish!

Thanks again, will have to go and have a look round the schools to get a better idea I think.