Empowering Pupil Premium Children: A Success Story from Ham Dingle Primary School
Representatives from Kumon and Ham Dingle Primary School recently attended a Pupil Premium Conference in Manchester, where they shared their inspiring story of collaboration and success. Lisa Sheldon, Instructor at the Kumon Stourbridge Study Centre, co-presented with Headteacher Jacqui Grace and Deputy Head, Debra Hunt, about their experiences of working together to develop the potential of their Pupil Premium children.
In January 2017, five pupils from the Pupil Premium cohort began attending the Stourbridge Study Centre, studying on either the Kumon maths or English programme. The children started at a level that was academically comfortable for them, allowing them to focus on developing their concentration, independent learning, and mental agility. After just under 12 months, the children made fantastic progress, with both the school and parents beaming with pride. The school is so impressed with their growth that they’re planning to include Year 2 students in the project next year.
Measurable Progress and Improved Confidence
Jacqui shared with the conference audience: “As the children are coming up to the end of their first year, we are starting to see them better access the curriculum and achieve high levels in English and maths as they move further up the Kumon programme. Notably, their confidence and resilience in all curriculum areas have improved, and the structure and routine of the Kumon programme have provided them with a more self-disciplined approach.” This approach has been particularly beneficial, as the children are now completing home learning projects set by the school, whereas previously they may have been reluctant to do so, or not at all.
The star of the show was nine-year-old Deakan, who confidently shared his experience studying with Kumon in collaboration with his school. Deakan said: “Before I joined Kumon, I was not really into reading, so I didn’t read things thoroughly and missed the details and facts I needed. Now, I am much better at reading and get better marks at Kumon and in the assessments we do at school. I read every day and have improved my grammar skills, using correct capital letters, full stops, and adjectives.”
A Partnership Focused on Unlocking Potential
From the outset, Lisa, Jacqui, and Deb’s aim has been to use the pupil premium grant to not just close the gaps but to help children better access the curriculum and achieve their full potential at school. Jacqui concluded: “We feel this partnership has been a great success. We realise that the ultimate outcomes for children take time, but we are already seeing great progress in our children selected for the project.” The collaboration between Kumon and Ham Dingle Primary School serves as a shining example of how effective partnerships can empower Pupil Premium children to reach their full potential.
Read more about this inspiring story and how Kumon can support your school’s Pupil Premium initiatives Here
