Why we assess
The purpose of assessment is:-
Integral to learning and teaching and it requires an effective partnership among all those involved including the learner.
To support individual learners on an ongoing basis.
To identify, capture and reflect on individual learner progress over time.
To understand group progress in order to reflect on practice. .
To have a secure overview of progress in line with school improvement priorities (Current and future)
To form a holistic picture of a child’s strengths, identifying their areas for improvements and next steps including support, challenge or resources required .
How we assess
As a school we reflect on our whole school performance in all areas of the school curriculum. At different times of the year we ask for feedback from learners, parents, governors and staff to collate information and opinions on our processes and procedures. All of this evidence is reviewed and forms the basis of our school self evaluation report (SER)which then identifies areas for development. From this information our school improvement plan (SIP) is created.
Recording progress
We are currently developing a Whole Class Marking process which works for all ages. This shows over a number of lessons how each learner progresses towards identified skills and their individual pace of progress. It also enables the class teacher to see very quickly where additional support/resources/consolidation is needed. Marking of pupils books is done with the learner wherever possible and praise/areas for further development is shared with the child.
Initial assessments are done with each child on baseline skills and the literacy/numeracy framework is used for older pupils. These are repeated three times across the year to track progress for each child.
Progress is recorded on a tracking system by each class teacher and support staff. Ongoing reflection informed planning.
Reporting progress
Parental consultations are held twice each year to discuss learner progress and targets shared.
ALN consultations are held twice a year for more complex learners with our ALNCo.
Learner reviews are carried out with all pupils, next steps agreed and outcomes shared with parents.
Written reports are sent to parents annually.
Our school has an open door policy and we make ourselves available to meet with parents outside of the arranged reporting methods at any time throughout the year.