This is the third year that Tenison Woods Catholic School has been involved in Visible Learning with Corwin. Staff have become more confident using learning intentions, success criteria, timely and effective feedback and solo taxonomy in their classrooms.
This term, the Visible Learning focus for staff and students is "What does a successful learner do?"
Back in 2019, Sarah filmed a number of students explaining what a good learner looked like and it was evident through this process that many students believed sitting still, listening, finishing work and not talking were key. Although these choices and skills certainly assist in the learning process, the staff of TWCS wanted the students to also be brave, take risks, persist, take on feedback and endeavour to be the best they can be. With the support of our Corwin mentor, Lyn, staff began to unpack how students learn and how they can have a more active role in their learning and progress.
Sarah and I filmed some students this term asking them, "What does a successful learner do?" The responses were varied but we captured more Visible Learning language, such as, using the "Bump It Up" wall, taking on and using feedback and accessing the success criteria. Staff having been proactive in setting goals and inviting Sarah and I into classrooms to speak with more students about their views on a successful learner. We look forward to hearing what they have to say.
Early next term, Lyn will be working with staff to ensure we are providing rich opportunities for students to experience ongoing success. We will be sharing our classroom practice with staff from St Joseph's, Kingswood and setting personal goals to continue improving our classroom culture.
We will be asking ourselves and each other the questions:
Are we writing our learning intentions in student-friendly language?
Are we making is clear what success looks like?
Are we communicating strategies for students to 'bump up' their work?
Are our students jumping into the Learning Pit?
Are our wall displays being interacted with or just pretty work?
Are we promoting a culture of resilient and thriving learners?
Sarah and I look forward to coaching and supporting staff in reaching their Visible Learning goals and in turn nurturing visible learners in all classrooms at Tenison Woods Catholic School.
Heather Docherty
Visible Learning Impact Coach
