At RPA, our online learning offer during COVID was developed to ensure that as many learners as possible could access quality first teaching. We used Teams to deliver live lessons to all pupils daily and our participation in KS2 was over 95%. The younger learners were more challenging to engage online; however, live lessons were delivered daily to a smaller audience.

We published recordings on the website for story time and phonics and included links to the Oak Academy and White Rose. 

We now know that the biggest impact has been with the youngest learners, with a particular increase in need for speech and language support in EYFS and KS1. We have also found that there has been a greater need for mental health and Pastoral support for some of our children.

In response, when all learners returned to school, we developed the Reconnection Curriculum which streamlined learning to core content and key concepts. In addition, we made a conscious effort to learn in the outdoor environment as much as possible. This is also when we started our Skills Builder journey, recognising that children needed greater support to build and maintain positive relationships and work within a team. 

Further to this, we have channelled Government funding to recruit a Pastoral Learning Mentor, who works with identified children to improve their mental health, and improve attendance. The Learning Mentor also delivers bespoke interventions, both academic and pastoral.