Two of Doncaster's biggest schools reveal special plans for exam year pupils

Two of Doncaster's biggest schools have revealed how they are helping youngsters keep up through lockdown as they continue their GCSE and A levels.
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Teachers and pupils across the borough are still working despite the current lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus, with only vulnerable pupils and children of key workers in the classrooms. Others are learning online.

At Outwood Academy Danum, pupils are being offered extra lessons and holiday sessions, and measures are being regularly reassessed.

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Danum Academy, in DoncasterDanum Academy, in Doncaster
Danum Academy, in Doncaster
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Principal Jayne Gaunt said the school had tracked student online attendance and had a clear idea where there gaps in learning for each student, with one to one tutors currently working online and in school with students to ensure no-one falls behind in maths, English and science in year 10 and 11.

She added: “We have held online exams to assess gaps in students understanding in years 10 and 11 and we are developing individual revision packs to support each student in the areas they need extra support. Curriculum leads met last week to discuss every student in year 10 and developed a personalised curriculum for every student to support them individually as they move into year 11

“We provide holiday intervention sessions for students

“We provide after school enrichment to create an extra lesson each day”

Sir Thomas Wharton AcademySir Thomas Wharton Academy
Sir Thomas Wharton Academy

Menwhile, Yvonne Bootman, principal at Sir Thomas Wharton Academy, said her school was delivering live lessons, every period, to every year group, every day.

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She said: “I would like to say a huge thank for the proactivity, effort and commitment from staff, students, and parents for delivering, engaging in, and supporting live lessons.”

Staff are working with pupils who are applying for a range of options from university to apprenticeships to help them.

In addition to live teaching, year 11 staff are providing students small group support across mathematics, English and science, as well as recording extra classes and revision sessions for year 11 students to ensure they have no gaps in their knowledge.

Currently 71 per cent of the pupils have received one to one online careers advice and support, with a careers advisor, and all pupils have been involved in an interview about progression routes.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.