Splitting classes by ability undermines efforts to help disadvantaged children, finds research into English primaries
Splitting pupils as young as six into classes based on ability – known as streaming – makes the brightest children brighter but does little to help the rest to catch up, according to new research into schools in England.
The analysis of the progress made by 2,500 six and seven-year-olds in state primary schools in England, conducted by academics at the Institute of Education in London, found that the use of streaming appears to entrench educational disadvantage compared with the results of pupils who were taught in all-ability classes.
But, does the other approach make a difference? Madison’s experience with English 10 and small learning communities has not moved the needle.
