Read this overview to find out how this resource can help you use data as a springboard for action to close attainment gaps.
What is the golden thread?
Effective schools routinely use data to identify learners who make slower progress than their peers. They know what works, take targeted action to close attainment gaps and monitor the value and impact of what they do. This, in essence, is the golden thread – connecting analysis of historic patterns of achievement with what teachers do in class today – moving from data analysis to learner impact and school improvement.
Within the golden thread
The golden thread resource includes:
- a framework for development and self-review
- an example from one primary school of the golden thread of improvement in action.
You can use the resource to:
- find out how to use data to identify learners who are making slower progress
- explore the thread that connects analysis to identification, classroom practice and improved progress for learners.
Data as a springboard to action
It is important that school leaders build on existing systems and strategies to develop this work.
- All schools have a wide range of data on which to draw, and in many schools teachers and leaders provide a wealth of expertise, with their capacity to absorb, analyse and use data effectively.
- Data analysis stimulates debate and informs evaluation. From complex analysis, however, simple messages must emerge to bring a sharp focus to the school’s commitment to improve.
- As well as analysing historic outcomes, effective systems track progress of current learners against challenging targets. Live sets of data can be used routinely, rapidly and effectively to bring challenge, drive improvements to teaching and learning, and shape interventions to keep learners on track.
