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We are a Primary school based in the north of Sunderland in an area of high deprivation. We have a nursery and rising two year old class. Parent involvement with school is good though parent/child communication could be improved. We have been working on 'listening' and 'speaking' as building blocks, both in school and as homework to involve the parents. Both speaking and listening skills are the building block for 'life skills' alongside the other skills offered. Children have shown their resilience in learning these skills, and though progress has been slow improvements have been made. Children have been keen to remind each other to use these skills, certainly during lessons and sometimes during break. As a school we are hopeful that these skills have been embedded and will continue to be used..
Overall impact
I feel the programme has made a big impact on school and home-life for some children. These are all skills that need to be discretely used through life - at school, home work and in relationships. I am hopeful that many children will be equipped for the future.
Keep it simple
All staff have been consistent in using the key language with all children at all times. Displays in classrooms support this. Lessons have been shared with parents. Certificates are given in our award ceremony each Friday.
Start early, keep going
We have been delivering lesson from our 'rising two year olds' through to year 6. Homework has been sent home to involve parents. Certificates are sent home.
Measure it
Staff have been asked to update trackers. Posters are displayed in classrooms and referred to throughout teaching. Certificates are given to children who have been observed using skills.
Focus tightly
The lessons are taught independently, but then the skills needed are refereed to alongside teaching of other subjects. The posters displayed will be referred to and questions asked of the pupils to which skills have been used that session/day.
Keep practising
Children practice their skills daily in every lesson, discretely and then openly during 'skillsbuilder' sessions. Practice at home also with homework and discussions with parents.
Bring it to life
When completing projects and challenges at school 'skills' are identified and discussed, with the hope that they will become embedded and used when needed. It is a skill itself to be able to pull these 'skills' out of your 'back pack' and use them when needed.
What's next
I would like staff to continue to use the language the embed this year. Consistency from staff will help embed language and skills to give the children the tools they need to accomplish their dreams and aspirations.
