When pupils join us in Year 7 they are placed into mixed ability sets. This approach ensures we get to know the children and their abilities well before using setting based on ability further up the school. We use a combination of standardised and in-house assessments including the Key Stage 2 SATs, reading age and subject specific age-related expectation assessments to make these judgements. Given that progress is rarely linear, we complete regular reviews to ensure pupils’ needs are met and they are able to progress throughout their time with us.