Mixing and rebalancing classes

RE-BALANCING/MIXING CLASSES

At Firs Farm we re-balance classes at the end of Reception, Year 2 and Year 4. This allows an opportunity to mix the classes to ensure we have a balance of abilities and at times gender. It also allows us an opportunity to look at class dynamics and ensure they are effective.

We mix these year groups as these are end of key stages/curriculum and allows classes to be at their most effective when they start the new key stage.

We will start this process during the Summer Term. Children will be asked to pick friends that they would like to have in their new class and once we have this information class teachers and senior leaders balance the classes. They use information on children's ability and progress in class alongside other information. We will tell children and parents/carers in Summer 2 when we will also have a number of transition activities before we break up.

Below you can find documents that will provide further details including the research that supports us.

Please find links to the forms for 2025-26 for the current Reception, Year 2 and Year 4 classes.

RECEPTION CLASSES

Reception classes form Please use this form to name 4 children that your child would like to be with in Year 1. Only complete one form.

YEAR 2 CLASSES

Form for Year 2 Classes Please use this form to select 4 friends your child would like to be in class with in Year 3

YEAR 4 CLASSES

Form for Year 4 Form Please use this form to select 4 children who you would like your child to have in their Year 5 and 6 class

Some of the most common questions we are asked about this process & and a presentation giving further details

Research on setting or streaming children

EEF-setting-or-streaming.pdf