Unlocking Potential: Leveraging GL Assessment Data for Pupil Success at IPS Cascais

At IPS Cascais, our main focus is on nurturing every child's potential and fostering a love for learning. Key to succeeding in this mission is harnessing the power of GL assessment data, including NGRT, PASS, and CAT4, to tailor our approach to meet the diverse needs of our pupils.

With this in mind, we invited Emily Whitmore, an international consultant for GL Education, to come to IPS for the day. While here she ran a masterclass for teachers and educational leaders from IPS Cascais and Nobel Algarve. This workshop gave an invaluable insight into how data can be used effectively to tailor teaching to support, engage and extend all learners. Below is a short synopsis of how each of the assessments delivered so far this year are used.

Understanding pupil Profiles: NGRT

The New Group Reading Test (NGRT) provides insights into pupils' reading comprehension skills, decoding abilities, and overall literacy proficiency. By analysing NGRT data, we gain a comprehensive understanding of each pupil's strengths and areas for growth in literacy.

Using NGRT data, teachers can implement targeted interventions to support struggling readers, such as personalised reading plans, small group instruction, or access to audiobooks. Conversely, for advanced readers, NGRT data enables educators to provide enriching opportunities that challenge and extend their literary skills, fostering a lifelong love for reading.

Unveiling Cognitive Abilities: CAT4

The Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) offers a deep dive into a pupil's cognitive strengths and weaknesses across four key areas: verbal, non-verbal, quantitative, and spatial reasoning. By leveraging CAT4 data, educators gain insights into each pupil's unique cognitive profile, allowing for differentiated instruction that caters to diverse learning styles.

With CAT4 data in hand, teachers can tailor instructional strategies to capitalise on pupils' strengths while addressing areas of challenge. For instance, pupils with strong verbal reasoning skills may excel in language-rich activities, while those with superior spatial reasoning abilities may thrive in hands-on, visual learning experiences.

Identifying Learning Preferences: PASS

The Pupil Attitudes to Self and School (PASS) assessment focuses on gauging pupils' attitudes towards themselves and their school environment. It examines factors such as motivation, engagement, and self-perception.

Through analysing PASS data, teachers gain valuable insights into pupils' attitudes, helping them understand how they perceive themselves and their school experiences.

Using PASS data, we can tailor our provision to better support pupils' individual needs. For example, understanding a pupil's motivation levels can inform strategies to enhance engagement, while insights into self-perception can guide efforts to boost confidence and self-esteem.

Empowering Every Learner

At IPS, we believe every child has the potential to succeed, and leveraging GL assessment data empowers us to unlock that potential. By analysing NGRT, PASS, and CAT4 data, we can personalise instruction, provide targeted support, and create enriching learning experiences that cater to the diverse needs of all pupils.

Continuing to harness the power of assessment data, we remain steadfast in our commitment to nurturing the academic growth and development of every child, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in school and beyond. 
 

written by Matthew Heger

Admissions & Marketing