Mixed Age Classes at Broomhill Infant School

Viewing children as active participants and decision makers opens up possibilities for educators to move beyond pre-conceived expectations about what children can do and learn. This requires educators to respect and work with each child’s unique qualities and abilities.

 

Here at Broomhill Infant School:

  • Our classroom practice allows pupils to take pride in their abilities as individuals, giving them constant motivation to improve.
  • The pace of learning is individualised.
  • Our children are viewed as unique individuals where we concentrate on what children cando, rather than what they can’t Our teachers focus on teaching each child according to his or her own strengths.
  • There is challenge for all pupils at their own pace.
  • Children develop a sense of family with their classmates.

 

What are the Benefits of Mixed Age Classes?

Research evidences that mixed-age classrooms are beneficial for young children’s development. Not only do children out-perform peers of the same age academically, studies also show that they thrive socially and emotionally. Mixed-age classrooms generate a family of learners who support and care for one another. Older children have the opportunity to serve as mentors and take leadership roles. These children model more sophisticated approaches to problem solving, helping younger children to accomplish tasks they would not be able to do independently whilst completing their own learning. This dynamic increases the older child’s level of independence and competence while increasing the younger child’s spirit of belonging in a community of learners. Younger children will have the opportunity to extend their learning and increase their vocabulary whilst working alongside older children. Mixed year classrooms are both socially and psychologically healthy because they promote friendship and provide extended contact with adults and peers of varying ages. Children in these classes therefore show a notable increase in self-esteem.

 

How Do Mixed Age Classes Work?

Our mixed age classes follow a two-year rolling programme of study. The rolling programmes have been developed to create a broad and balanced curriculum over a two-year period. National Curriculum content for children from both years within the key stage has been carefully considered to ensure that the progression of skills is clear.

Social and Emotional Benefits:

  • Enhanced Social Skills:

Children develop relationships with a wider range of peers and learn to collaborate effectively with those of different ages and skill levels. 

  • Improved Self-Concept:

Students in mixed-age classes often report higher levels of self-esteem, personal adjustment, and positive attitudes towards school. 

  • Stronger Communication Skills:

Children in mixed-age classes may develop stronger communication skills as they interact with older peers who model more advanced language and communication styles. 

  • Sense of Community:

Mixed-age classrooms create a sense of family and belonging, as older and younger students support and care for one another. 

  • Reduced Competition:

There is often less emphasis on comparing oneself to peers of the same age, as children in mixed-age groups focus more on individual progress and discovery. 

Academic Benefits:

  • Deeper Learning:

Exposure to diverse perspectives from older and younger peers can lead to richer discussions and deeper engagement with subject matter. 

  • Improved Vocabulary:

Younger children can expand their vocabulary by interacting with older peers who may use more advanced language. 

  • Flexibility in Learning:

Teachers can tailor their approach to meet individual needs, offering differentiated learning experiences for students at various stages of development. 

  • Opportunities for Leadership and Mentorship:

Older students can take on leadership roles, supporting younger children with their learning and modelling positive behaviours. 

  • Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills:

Students learn to collaborate and find solutions together, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

Practical Considerations:

  • Teacher Training:

Teachers in mixed-age classrooms require specific training and strategies to effectively differentiate instruction and meet the needs of all students. 

  • Resource Allocation:

Curriculum materials and resources may need to be adapted to accommodate the diverse learning levels within the classroom. 

  • Classroom Management:

Effective classroom management strategies are essential for maintaining a positive and productive learning environment.