Low achievers in Year 6 : what future?

Abstract

Many Maltese Primary State Schools are facing the problem of low achievers in year six. This year affects their future life as then they are posted in Secondary or in New Secondary Schools. This study conducted in an urban school in the North of Malta, focuses mainly on case studies of pupils in the two lowest stream classes. The author interviewed their parents, teachers, ex-teachers and headteacher of the school to get their points of view of the educational system and to know well the pupils. Observations were conducted in both classes to notice the methodology used and the classroom situation focussing on the pupils' behaviour and their interaction with the teacher and their peers. The author found out that children feel that they are emarginated from the educational system. Though qualitative research is not extensive, it is channelled to improve the quality of education. Since they come from a deprived family background, they need help and support from the school especially in literacy and numeracy skills. Teaching should enhance creativity and groupwork keeping in mind to build up the children's self-esteem and self-confidence. Teachers view streaming as a facilitator for learning. For parents and pupils, it is a possible way of giving pupils more individual attention. However, research illustrates that low achievers benefit more from mixed-ability teaching and setting. An illiteracy study across all years in Primary Schools could be done. Children could also have the opportunity to choose optional subjects; thus low achievers would improve their capabilities.