About the school: Small rural Church of England Cheshire school, south of Chester with a diverse social intake but not in cultural terms.
Number of classes: 4
Number on roll: 96
Pathways to Spell is a consistent, systematic approach which led seamlessly on from The Little Wandle. We previously struggled with consistency and leaving gaps in learning.
Pupils’ attitudes to spelling are positive and they are always happy to hear it is a spelling lesson as fun and pacy. Children enjoy spelling and think of themselves as good spellers. They know lots of strategies to draw on when struggling with a word.
The data across our school is good, and there is a seamless link from Little Wandle to Pathways to Spell.
Teachers are much more confident with guidance on how to teach the rules and patterns. Subject knowledge and pedagogy is now consistent and teachers and TAs are far more confident in delivering lessons
In terms of teacher workload, Pathways to Spell is much more ‘Pick up and go’ friendly, especially in the second year as resources are already made.