Most Able

The term ‘Most Able’ is used by Oftsed and DfE to describe children whose progress and attainment significantly exceed age-related expectations. In each cohort the number of children can vary however nationally a guide line of 25% of each year group should fall into this category.  'Most Able' used to be called 'gifted and talented'. 

How does Lynch Hill cater for Most Able pupils? 

At Lynch Hill, we closely monitor groups of more able children across the core areas – Reading, Writing and Maths – tracking their progress from entry to the school until they leave us for the journey into secondary school. It is important that all children reach their full potential and for this reason we provide targeted intervention to keep children working to the best of their abilities. 

In the day to day curriculum children are set from an early age and this allows teachers to cater for the needs of children at their level in order to provide an appropriate level of challenge. 

What additional support will be provided for our Most Able Pupils? 

At Lynch Hill, we are keen to ensure that all pupils are given the necessary support to ensure they meet their potential and flourish. This is the same for Most Able Pupils . Teachers prepare additional support plans to ensure relevant opportunities are given. These often focus on reasoning, extension and deepen resources that pupils need to ensure they are constantly completing. We also aim to provide opportunities for children beyond the classroom, hosting assemblies, workshops and trips. 

What does the school expect from its Most Able Pupils? 

Children who are identified with a particular talent or gift are given additional planned provision. As a school, we would like to see our Most Able children taking ownership of their own learning, showing independence and aspirations to challenge themselves. There are many opportunities at Lynch Hill School and we see commitment and enthusiasm from the children as an important factor in the success of the Most Able provision. 

How can following the Most Able provision benefit my child? 

At Lynch Hill, we are not simply aiming to build students that have an extensive knowledge or talent in an area but are trying to develop learners who have a range of skills beyond their peers. Most Able pupils should be able to tackle any problem presented to them following the schools PRESENT values: Passion, Resilience, Equality, Safety, Enrichment, Nurture and Teamwork. 

I think my child should be considered as Most Able? 

We recognise that parents spend lots of time supporting their children to complete a number of additional activities. As such, you may believe that your child has talent or abilities above their peers. If this is the case please come and speak to your child’s class teacher and discuss your reasons in detail. Teachers can also ensure that we can support your child’s development.  

We have noticed that many pupils in KS1 that are considered to be Most Able are the eldest pupils. Therefore, as a school, we simply monitor the progress pupils in KS1 make and ensure relevant extension opportunities are given. As they enter KS2, we can be more sure that pupil ability is due to being Most Able rather than age related. 

How can I support my child if they are following the Most Able Plan? 

Children learn best when learning is fun and tailored to meet a child’s needs. Through the Autumn and Spring progress review meetings, teachers will share the areas that they would like to develop, this can provide you with a starting point in identifying extra activities. Sometimes trips to the museum can help, as well as completing extended research projects set by school. 

Please speak to your child’s teacher to ensure you fully understand what you can do. Remember – learning should not be pressurised. 

Will my child always be considered Most Able? 

Of course pupils develop at different rates. What is important is to ensure that all pupils are given opportunities to fulfil their potential. If a teacher thinks your child is no longer Most Able in their year group they will communicate this with you. 

Whenever children leave Lynch Hill (eg in Year 6 or during the year as a result of a change of circumstance) we always inform the new school that we, at Lynch Hill, believed the child was Most Able. It is dependent on each school (and year group) to identify children as Most Able.