Dear Parents and Carers, 

As we prepare for the next academic year, we have carefully reviewed class groupings for students currently in Years 7 and 8, who will be moving into Years 8 and 9 in September. As a result, there will be some changes to how classes are organised. 

For students entering Year 8, class groupings will remain broadly structured, continuing our current approach of mixing strengths, interests, and positive working relationships. For students entering Year 9, we are moving away from subject-based setting in most areas. From September, the majority of subjects will be taught in carefully structured, inclusive groups, designed to support high engagement, positive relationships, and excellent learning. Mathematics will remain the only subject where students are grouped by prior attainment. 

These decisions reflect our commitment to creating the best possible learning environment for all students. Experience and research show that diverse, balanced classes—combined with high-quality teaching—help promote collaboration, peer support, and academic progress for everyone. We also pay close attention to group dynamics to foster calm, focused, and supportive classrooms. 

It is important to note that class groupings are not fixed. We keep them under regular review throughout the year, and where changes are needed to support learning, wellbeing, or behaviour, we will make them. This approach allows us to respond flexibly to the needs of students as they progress.

 We understand how important friendships are during secondary school. While students may find themselves in new groupings, there will still be many opportunities to spend time with friends during breaks, lunch, and before or after school. In lessons, our focus remains on purposeful learning, mutual respect, and positive behaviour. 

Overleaf, you will find the answers to some frequently asked questions. 

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. 

Yours sincerely

Luke Burrows

Assistant Headteacher 

Grouping Changes – Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1: How are the new class groups decided? 

Class groupings are developed by Heads of Faculty and Raising Standards Leaders, who work closely with subject teachers and pastoral teams. We consider a range of factors including academic strengths, social and emotional dynamics, behaviour, and overall class balance. The aim is to create effective and positive learning environments for all students. 

Q2: Will my child still be in a class with their friends? 

We do take friendships into account where possible. However, our priority is to create groupings that support strong learning and focus. Students will continue to have plenty of time to socialise with friends during breaks, lunch, and outside of lessons. 

Q3: Are any subjects still taught in sets? 

Yes. In Year 9, mathematics will continue to be grouped by prior attainment. All other subjects will be taught in broad, inclusive groups designed to support all learners. 

Q4: Will this affect academic progress? 

No. Our teachers are skilled at planning lessons that challenge and support all students, regardless of groupings. High expectations, differentiation, and individual support remain central to our teaching approach. 

Q5: When will we find out about class changes? 

Students will receive their new timetables before the end of term. These will reflect any changes to groupings and teaching groups for September. 

Q6: Are the groupings permanent? 

No. Class groupings are regularly reviewed throughout the year. We may make changes where needed to support academic progress, wellbeing, or behaviour. 

Q7: Who can I speak to if I have a concern? 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your child’s Raising Standards Leader, either by telephone or by email. Contact details can be found on the school website or via the main school office.