CASTLETHORPE FIRST SCHOOL CURRICULUM

Castlethorpe First School is a member of the Milton Keynes Primary Schools Learning Network. Last year we undertook classroom research to explore how we might improve the quality of children's writing through developing pupil self-assessment.

The strategies we developed, resulted in a marked improvement in children's writing throughout the school, and was reflected in our SATs results. These teaching strategies are now firmly embedded in everyday practice in the classroom.

We were thrilled to have our work published in the journal, Professional Development Today, and were delighted to have the opportunity to present our findings at the conference for the British Educational Research Association in Manchester , and at the International Congress for School Effectiveness and Improvement in Barcelona . A copy of the paper, which was written in conjunction with two other schools in the network, can be requested by contacting us by email.

This year our research investigates the possibilities of developing children's creative skills by teaching a thinking skills programme. Staff and governors have received training, and this is now being put into practice in the classroom.

As part of our work, the staff participate in “Learning Walks” in other network schools, to develop ideas and share good practice. We are also fortunate to work alongside Professor Christopher Day from Nottingham University , who acts as our “critical friend” in our research projects.

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