The longstanding debate on student grouping has seen a shift in my department from mixed-attainment to attainment setting. While research suggests minimal impact, our approach emphasises tailored instruction and high student mobility. This method aims to meet diverse student needs, ensuring engagement and challenging all learners, despite controversies in available research.
By centralising routines, schools reduce the stressful cognitive load on pupils and teachers, fostering a consistent, team-oriented environment where everyone can focus on actual learning.
Why is deep subject knowledge so critical for effective teaching? My 'electrolysis moment' taught me it’s the foundation of all pedagogy. This post explores why teacher CPD must focus on building this expertise, moving beyond generic strategies to truly improve student learning and teacher confidence.
The Testing Effect enhances long-term retention through retrieval practice, not frequent testing. Completing more tests doesn't mean you'll get the testing effect.
Education should prepare young people for life, not just work. It’s about building knowledge, understanding society, and giving everyone a fair start.
Centralising educational resources enhances teaching effectiveness by providing a consistent repository of materials. This approach fosters collaboration, allows for flexibility, and ensures all students receive quality instruction, ultimately improving learning outcomes and teacher development.
In 2023, I started a new role as Head of the Science Department in Liverpool. It has been an incredible journey, and as I reflect on the experience, several key lessons have emerged that I’d like to share.
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