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Our Teaching Approach

 

Where wellbeing, evidence and high expectations meet.

At Tenison Woods Catholic School, we believe every child can succeed — with the right support, effective teaching, and a nurturing environment. Learning here goes beyond academics; it's about helping every child grow in confidence, capability, and character.
Our approach combines research-backed teaching methods with a deep focus on wellbeing, ensuring every student has the best chance to thrive.

What Guides Our Teaching

Clear, supportive, and effective — for every learner.

Our teaching is grounded in two core principles:

Explicit Instruction Icon

Explicit Instruction

We use a structured approach where teachers model the learning, practise it together with students, and then guide them as they apply it independently. This “I do, we do, you do” method brings clarity, builds confidence, and helps every learner feel capable and supported.

Multisensory Learning Icon

Multisensory Learning

Students learn best when they’re actively involved. That’s why our lessons engage multiple senses — using visuals, sound, movement and touch to help concepts stick. This approach supports memory, builds understanding, and gives every student more ways to connect with their learning.

Teacher with Students


 

Making Learning Possible

Wellbeing at the Heart

Wellbeing at the Heart

Wellbeing is part of everything we do. Students learn strategies to build resilience, empathy and a growth mindset through our Positive Education approach.

Learning Spaces That Inspire

Learning Spaces That Inspire

Our classrooms and play areas are open, flexible and designed for all kinds of learners — encouraging collaboration, creativity and deep engagement.

Early Support That Makes a Difference

Early Support That Makes a Difference

We believe the right support at the right time makes a big difference. Our intervention programs help students build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy from the start.

Literacy That Works for Every Child

Structured, inclusive, and evidence-informed.

From Reception to Year 6, we implement a structured literacy model that supports all learners, including those with dyslexia. Our approach includes:

Synthetic Phonics
Synthetic Phonics
Systematic teaching of phonics to build strong reading foundations.
Oral Language Development
Speaking & Listening
Emphasis on speaking and listening skills, especially in the early years.
Scaffolded Support
Scaffolded Support
Gradual release of responsibility to foster independence.

Personalised Support Strategies

We are committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment. Our intervention programs are designed to cater to the unique needs of our students, ensuring early identification and support to help every child reach their full potential.

Purposeful teaching. Genuine care.

What Families Can Expect

A consistent approach, across every year level.

When your child joins Tenison Woods, they’re entering a learning community that values:

  • High expectations, clear routines and proven support strategies
  • Passionate, caring teachers
  • A belief that every child can learn — and deserves the chance to
  • Targeted intervention programs that ensure no child falls through the cracks

See how we teach at TWCS.

We’d love to show you what learning looks like in our classrooms.