Scott Lavery\’s Enterprise Blog

It has been a while since I last gave an update on my work in Wallyford. All classes are now using the WHY question where relevant and discussion with both staff and pupils has shown this to be successful in improving motivation.

Since returning after the October break, I have been working closely with the Primary 1-4 classes in the school to focus on how children can take ownership for their learning through the use of Learning Goals. From p2-4, the focus has been on writing and supporting the chidlren to find ways of closing the gap. In Primary 1, the goals set have been more generic in their use. I have to admit that I was apprehensive about working with this age group but have been pleasantly surprised by the level of engagement and understanding taking place.

Our next step was to relate these goals to the 4 capacities of Curriculum for Excellence. As a staff, we discussed how to help the children understand what it actually means to be a Successful Learner, Confident Individual, Responsible Citizen and Effective Contributor. To do this, we decided that each class would personalise the various bullet points so they are able to made sense to them. So far, we have looked at Successful Learners and Confident Individuals and their interpretation makes sense to both the classs and the staff. This will then allow us to relate their learning goals to one or more of the 4 capacities and discover how this helps them to develop their learning.

I have included a copy of the posters produced already by the classes to demonstrate the level of engagement from the young people.

cfe-capacities-p1.doc

I am really enjoying the opportunity to help develop teaching and learning in the school and would like to thank the staff for their support with this. It has been a real team effort to get to where we are now.