Keeping pupils in school for longer lessons would not be enough to overcome the gaps in their learning caused by Covid disruption, according to research by a University of Cambridge academic. So far the government’s catch-up efforts have been aimed at creating a national tutoring programme, offering small group and one-to-one tuition. But the study by Vaughan Connolly, a researcher at Cambridge’s education department, suggests that only small gains could be expected from longer time spent in lessons. The study also found that extended teaching was some help in closing the attainment gap between students on free school meals and others. Giving them space to play sports, paint, try different crafts and socialise will all lead to learning and the development of important life skills.”

Source: The Guardian May 28, 2021 14:37 UTC