Answers to FAQ’s about R time

An R time lesson should be taught just once a week, ideally early in the week.
Each session should take no more than 10 to 15 minutes. Care should be taken not to let it
run over time.
R time is taught in the classroom and doesn’t need special spaces.
R time can take place on a carpet, sitting at desks and, on occasions, outside or in the hall.
R time is non-academic and is suitable for all abilities.
Every lesson is written out in six easy to follow steps.
To get started the only basic resource needed is an R time book.
The recommended approach is for the R time programme to be carried out as a whole school.
Where schools started it in just one class, almost always, it then spread to other classes.
The programme is designed for Early Years’ Foundation Stage settings and Primary schools –
Nursery through to Year 6. There is also a Secondary companion programme, that uses the
same approach, called Negotiate.
Special training to maximise the benefits of R time is useful, but not essential. This book will go
a long way in helping to implement the programme successfully.
R time fits very well with SEAL. It contributes to children’s well-being and reduces bullying by
developing mutual respect and building positive relationships between the children.
In some schools Teaching Assistants teach the programme. But the class teacher should also
take an active part.
Children’s reaction to the programme is, almost without exception, very positive. They love doing
R time!
You will see positive results almost immediately after commencing R time.
It has such a positive impact on a school because the programme is very much process driven
and that process will impact daily on the school curriculum.
R time does not compete with Circle Time. There is room for both programmes in the school year.
Parents can get involved, both in and out of school.
The activities are usually carried out with the whole class........with the exception of Early Years
Foundation Stage where small group work may be more practical.
You can be fully supported with the implementation of R time in your school. Please see Support for Schools and Contact Us