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Access GCSEPod KS3 helps with teaching mixed-ability classes

Teaching KS3 students in mixed-ability classes has become increasingly common, especially in the wake of the pandemic. According to recent Teacher Tapp findings, 53% of English teachers taught Year 8 classes in mixed-attainment groups during the pandemic due to social distancing bubbles, up from 31% prior to it. Now, even after restrictions have lifted, this trend has continued: 58% of English teachers and 56% of Science teachers still teach Year 8 in mixed-attainment settings. This shift has left many teachers looking for resources that can cater to a wide range of abilities within one classroom - and that’s where Access GCSEPod’s KS3 content can make a real difference.

3 minutes

by Emma Slater

Curriculum & Learning Expert

Posted 14/11/2024

Embracing mixed-ability classes with Access GCSEPod KS3

Access GCSEPod KS3 provide a flexible, student-centric approach that supports learning at every level within a single classroom. With this tool, teachers can create a personalised experience for each student, allowing them to progress at their own pace without feeling like they’re falling behind or getting too far ahead. 

Here’s some advice from our customers on how they approach teaching mixed-ability KS3 classes effectively:

Personalised learning, side by side

One of the main challenges in mixed-ability settings is providing content that feels relevant and challenging to each student, without drawing attention to any perceived gaps in learning. Access GCSEPod’s KS3 content allows students to work at different levels, side by side, in a way that feels seamless. This feature is particularly effective in classes with a broad ability range, as students can navigate their learning independently or in small groups, with each pupil tackling the right level of challenge for them, without any of their peers knowing.

At Trinity School, Access GCSEPod was instrumental in helping teachers provide an inclusive learning experience. By giving students access to a comprehensive range of curriculum-aligned content, Trinity’s teachers were able to meet each student where they are in their learning journey. Teachers could focus on facilitating, knowing that every student was progressing, regardless of their starting point.

Independent learning and homework support

Access GCSEPod’s KS3 resources also lend themselves well to independent study, which can be a powerful tool in mixed-ability classes. Students can work through materials at their own pace, with opportunities for practice through mastery activities that reinforce skills and understanding. Teachers can assign specific Pods as homework or classwork, knowing that each student will be challenged appropriately, making homework feel more engaging and purposeful.

For instance, Holte School leveraged Access GCSEPod for KS3 to allow students to learn independently. With Access GCSEPod, Holte teachers set up Pods that students could use to recap lessons or tackle new material. This autonomy helped students develop confidence and allowed teachers to spend more time offering individual support as needed.

Encouraging mastery and engagement

Access GCSEPod KS3’s structure supports mastery learning, which can be highly effective in mixed-ability classes. For students who grasp content quickly, mastery activities provide them with the chance to deepen their understanding. For those who may need more time, it offers an opportunity to consolidate and strengthen their grasp on foundational concepts. By enabling students to engage with material at a level that is appropriately challenging, Access GCSEPod keeps all students engaged and motivated, regardless of their ability level.

Why Schools love Access GCSEPod KS3

Schools and teachers appreciate the adaptability and independence that Access GCSEPod’s KS3 content brings to mixed-ability classrooms. As Richard Ward, Director of Science at Delta Academies Trust, shares:

“KS3 is a gamechanger for Access GCSEPod. It brings together the best of Pod and elevates it with a more user-friendly UI. Access GCSEPod has everything a teacher and a student could ever need.”

With Access GCSEPod’s KS3 resources, schools can provide a tailored and effective approach to mixed-ability learning, empowering teachers to create a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment.
Ready to see how Access GCSEPod KS3 can support your school?

Take a tour of the Access KS3 content to explore the potential of Access GCSEPod KS3 for your mixed-ability classes and discover how it can streamline learning for both students and teachers.

By Emma Slater

Curriculum & Learning Expert

Meet Emma, who is dedicated to supporting schools in their pursuit of digital learning excellence. 10 Years experience as a Lead Practitioner and Head of English in LEA and Trust run schools across SE London developed her passion for developing knowledge and skills rich curriculum. As a PiXL Associate working with 100’s of schools up and down the country and as an author of T&L resources for OUP, Collins and York Notes she gained a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the education sector.

Her dedication to education led her to a pivotal role as Director of Education at Access GCSEPod, where she merged her love for education with her publishing experience to pioneer a values-driven approach to EdTech. Emma championed the cause of providing diverse and inclusive learning content that delivers a rich curriculum in a form that supports all pupils to learn succeed.

Now, at The Access Group, Emma brings her skills and experience in strategy, education, and product development to oversee the growth and delivery of innovative 'big ideas' that support the education sector. Her passion for supporting schools in their curriculum journey is deeply rooted in her extensive classroom experience.