How St Peter’s Woodlands is Leading the Way in Student-Centred Learning
At St Peter’s Woodlands, we believe every child deserves to be seen, heard and supported in their learning journey. That’s why we’ve made a significant commitment across the entire school—from Reception to Year 4, every classroom has a qualified teacher and a dedicated Education Support Officer (ESO). In the senior years, our students are encouraged to become more independent in preparation for senior school and are supported by their classroom teacher and two roaming ESOs supporting Year 5 and two roaming ESOs supporting Year 6. This model reflects our belief that education is a shared responsibility—and that when it comes to raising and educating a child, it truly does take a village.
What is an ESO and Why Are They So Important?
Education Support Officers are professionals who play a pivotal role in the daily life of a classroom. Far more than just “another pair of hands,” ESOs work in close partnership with teachers to provide tailored support that addresses the academic, social and emotional needs of every child.
Whether it’s helping a student transition into the day, leading educational breakout groups or sitting alongside those who need extra encouragement to participate, ESOs bring a calm, consistent presence that supports both students and staff.
Throughout the day, they show initiative, help redirect and engage students, and offer sensory or movement breaks as needed, including supporting students in accessing regulation spaces such as The Zone.
A Flexible, Student-Centred Approach
By having both a teacher and an ESO in every classroom, SPW is able to offer more flexible, responsive teaching. Breakout groups—whether for targeted intervention or extension—can happen seamlessly, ensuring each child is supported exactly where they’re at.
During Literacy lessons, ESOs provide one-on-one or small group support, reinforcing learning and giving students the confidence to master the task. They break down instructions, use hands-on materials, and adapt content to suit learners’ needs. They also assist with learning tools like visual timetables, reward charts, whiteboard prompts and adaptive technologies.
In Reception to Year 2 ESOs support children at all their Specialist lessons. This provides consistency for the children and for the Specialists teachers who only get to see the classes once a week.
This additional support allows teachers to focus on whole-class instruction or work individually with students—especially important during assessment periods when one-on-one time is essential.
Meeting Emotional and Social Needs
In the early years especially, children often need reassurance and a steady presence throughout the day. ESOs help students navigate emotions, manage transitions, and build resilience. Whether it’s calming a child at drop-off or helping to reset behaviour with non-verbal cues and proximity, their leadership is critical to a well-functioning classroom.
They move actively around the room, observe students’ engagement, provide real-time feedback to teachers, and help scaffold or extend learning as needed. This dual focus on academic and emotional support strengthens the entire classroom environment.
Our 24 ESOs also cover yard duties, providing a familiar face and consistency for children at these pivotal moments in their play.
Investing in Future Educators
Many of our ESOs are currently studying to become teachers. This model not only enriches our classrooms now, and invests in the future of education. These passionate individuals bring fresh thinking, dedication and a strong understanding of current educational theory and practice—and, in turn, gain valuable real-world experience in diverse and dynamic classroom environments.
The Impact: Stronger Relationships, Better Learning
The presence of an ESO enhances student wellbeing, strengthens relationships, and provides another trusted adult in the room. These strong connections encourage students to take risks, ask questions, and engage deeply with their learning.
For teachers, the benefits are just as powerful—having a second professional to share insights, co-manage challenges, and reflect on student needs fosters collaboration and reduces pressure.
A Unique SPW Difference
Our educator-supported classroom model is a defining feature of St Peter’s Woodlands. It reflects our unwavering commitment to inclusive, student-centred education and creates a learning environment where all students can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.
When students are known, supported and encouraged by more than one adult, they flourish. When teachers are empowered with the right support, their capacity to deliver high-quality learning is amplified.