Setting versus Streaming

SPTC comments on the news that more schools are opting to set children by ability.

"Mixed response as schools opt to set children by ability."
"The Scotsman" on Saturday 21st May

Research at Edinburgh University has found that more than half of Scottish primary schools are putting children into classes based on their abililty in an attempt to raise attainment. This practice is known as setting and has been criticised for stigmatising less able pupils.

Unlike streaming, where brighter pupils receive lessons in a separate class, setting focuses on one subject, such as language. Supporters claim that it prevents more able pupils being held back in mixed-ability classes, while giving other pupils the chance to excel for the first time.

Some groups have given this report a cautious welcome. Judith Gillespie, SPTC Development Manager commented that setting could lead to some pupils becoming stuck in a particular ability group for the rest of their school career.

She said: "The difficulty with setting is that kids get locked in their level and it's then very difficult to get out."
"While i can see there's great advantage in teaching and letting able kids go forward, you have always got to be alive to the fact that kids at primary school develop at different paces."

Read more in "The Scotsman" on:
www.scotsman.com