There is considerable evidence supporting multi-age groups for teaching.
We have always followed this approach and see many benefits:
• Teachers teach children at point of need rather than being confined by perceptions of age levels.
• Children can get access whatever help and teaching they need in flexible groupings.
• More able children tend to be fully extended.
• Children with difficulties feel more relaxed about accessing much needed questions and will ask questions more readily.
Essentially this is modelled on natural family groupings and honours the fact that we grow and mature at different times, sometimes with “spurts” and sometimes more slowly.
Teachers who teach this way develop the ability to be more flexible and use more learning games and “hands-on” equipment.
Of course teachers who teach in these environments need some support, coaching and modelling in this teaching method. It is like conducting an orchestra and once you know how, you just get better!
We believe the educational gains are great so if you have the chance to teach in a multi-age environment, take it! You have much to gain!
Parents who have the chance to enrol in multi-age classrooms or tuition centres- know your children are experiencing an excellent education mode and likely to have very tangible social and academic gains.
Victoria Carlton ~ The Child Whisperer
The World of Victoria Carlton
