Saturday school boost for pupils

The Specialist Schools and Academies says a revolution is going on in schools

Many secondary schools in England are using Saturday classes and extended school days to boost pupils' results.

Nearly a quarter of schools surveyed by the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust said they ran these extra classes to help pupils develop their potential.

The survey of 425 schools also found over a third grouped pupils by the stage they were at rather than by age.

But a teachers' union said the survey results only highlighted the intense pressure schools were under to perform.

More than half of the schools which took part in the survey operated a public school-style house system to improve behaviour and encourage interaction between peer groups.

SURVEY RESULTS 24% hold Saturday classes 24% run longer school days 55% have a house system 37% group pupils by stage not age 80% partner with business

And 17% had set up a "mini school" within their school, with 14% planning to do so in the next 12 months.

Schools have used this system to ease Year 7 pupils through the transition between primary and secondary, by limiting their interaction with older pupils.

The survey was of specialist schools and academies.

Elizabeth Reid, chief executive of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust said: "There is a quiet revolution going on in our schools and it is one being led by dynamic head teachers and school leaders.

"Extended school days and Saturday classes are excellent examples of how they are doing this.

"They create more flexibility within the curriculum, helping teachers to engage students, and encourage greater engagement with the community through a wider use of school buildings.

"If we are to personalise learning and provide all young people with a world class education then we must radically redesign the system so it is fit for the 21st century."

'Enormous pressure'

But general secretary of the NASUWT teachers' union, Chris Keates, said: "This is symptomatic of the enormous pressure being placed on schools.

"Some schools are appointing additional teachers on separate contracts and qualified support staff to provide these booster sessions," she said.

"However in too many, other teachers are being put under enormous pressure to work these additional hours at a time when all available evidence shows that teachers and school leaders are already working excessive hours.

"No system should rely on individuals compromising their own health, wellbeing and sacrificing their family and personal life in order to deliver the service."

The survey results were published as the SSAT met in Birmingham for its annual conference.