Enriching learning through progressive teaching methods and technology

A Thinking School is one in which teachers and pupils have a deep understanding of how to learn and think effectively. The aim is to embed this approach in our teaching and learning so that the children become independent learners quicker and as a result move through the curriculum at a faster pace.

We want our pupils to develop an awareness of themselves as learners from as early as Reception through a variety of strategies which will become well-developed by the time they move on to their next stage in education.

Metacognition is at the heart of this work, and we will be working on honing existing practice and learning new ones so that ALL pupils benefit from this approach

Questioning and knowledge

Build both knowledge and application of knowledge

A Thinking School understands that both these functions are fundamental to a successful education. A question is almost always the first stage in the learning process, but a question cannot exist without prior knowledge.  We will be working on further developing questioning so that the questions are visible and that children are more able to form their questions. This in turn will cause the children to develop and then apply their knowledge.

The process of learning

Learn and develop by failing and trying again

Already we celebrate the process of learning more than the outcomes. Perseverance is one of our school values and the children leave Marlow Infant School with an understanding that ‘we learn by making mistakes’. These mistakes, however need to be the right kinds of mistakes. We encourage mistakes and our pupils learn by trying things out, failing and then trying again. Pupils already about parts of their brain and their function through the teaching of the MindUp curriculum in school, but we will be adding to this and teaching the children (in an age appropriate manner) how their brains allow them to learn and acquire knowledge & skills

 

In the classroom

Ideas and strategies to ensure a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere

Our teaching team enjoys learning too and over the last 2 years, they have been further developing their practice by adding a range of new tools that will help teach pupils ‘intelligent learning behaviours’.  As a result, classrooms have a dynamic and stimulating atmosphere where all our teachers aim to ignite the children’s curiosity and inspire a lifelong love of learning.