Essex Research School update – 8 June 2026

Latest updates from the Essex Research School – including High Quality Teaching & Inclusion by Design and More Than a Score - Rethinking Assessment in Primary Maths.


High Quality Teaching & Inclusion by Design

How can we ensure every pupil is able to achieve and thrive?

In this latest blog post, Susan Marbe explores the concept of “inclusion by design” – an approach that places accessibility and high expectations at the heart of teaching from the outset.

Grounded in EEF evidence, the article highlights that:

  • High quality teaching remains the most powerful driver of pupil outcomes
  • Inclusion works best when we plan for diversity from the start, not as a response later
  • Approaches like modelling, scaffolding and breaking learning into small steps can benefit all learners

This is a thoughtful and practical read for teachers and leaders committed to inclusive, evidence-informed practice.

👉 Read the full blog post here


FREE PD EVENT: More Than a Score – Rethinking Assessment in Primary Maths

How can we move beyond “right or wrong” and truly understand how pupils think? Join this free online session led by Elizabeth Millane, exploring how an observing and listening approach to assessment can transform teaching and learning in primary maths.

📅 6 July 2026
4:00–5:00pm
💻 Online – free to attend

In this session, you will explore how:

  • Careful observation and listening can reveal what pupils know, what they don’t yet know, and why
  • Assessment can go beyond scores to shape curriculum planning, modelling and task design
  • Purposeful assessment across the year helps identify misconceptions early and adapt teaching in real time
  • Whole-class teaching, small group work and personalised practice can be better informed through richer assessment insights

This session is ideal for primary teachers and leaders (KS1–KS2 maths) looking to strengthen assessment practice and deepen pupil understanding.

👉 Register here


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