Over the last week we have been impressed by the children’s confidence when asked the simple questions, ” What are you learning?” and “What are you improving at?” This confidence has been promoted by our amazing staff team who are sharing the intended learning in every lesson and taking time to break it down so children can understand what lies ahead.
The word “improving” is important here because there is no real end point to learning. We are all learning, every single day as the expression goes, ” Every day is a school day,” It is a life long journey.
Knowing what happens behind the school doors is really important as a parent isn’t it? I have two daughters at school myself and at times it is often like finding out the riddles of the Da Vinci code when I ask them simply about their day at school.
Covid has impacted upon this “knowing” as a parent for sure and SEESAW will eventually unlock the door…. Or at least leave it ajar until which time as we can be physically present, together in the school again in the future.
This term I had the real pleasure of working alongside the teachers to plan the learning for each class and I was delighted with the ambition, determination and creativity all the teachers have shown when considering the experiences the children should have each and every day within Claypotts. We are absolutely committed to delivering the best educational experience for your children, all our children. There has been a greater focus on learning and a shift from activity. The planned learning has been captured and shared in the recent newsletter.
We decided to begin with improving our planning as a staff team. It isn’t just the children who can improve after all. We are a learning community. The better the plan, the greater the likelihood of success…whether you are building a shed or a cathedral and we are certainly attempting to build cathedrals at Claypotts or maybe even a castle or two…
Knowing the difference between activity and learning is important. Busy is Busy but as the saying goes ,” A rocking horse is constantly moving but doesn’t go anywhere.” At Claypotts we are definitely less about the rocking and more about the rolling...improving as we go. Rolling up our sleeves up together, making things happen and overcoming whatever barriers to learning Covid presents us with.
As I write this blog I am reminded of a recent exchange with a little girl called Eilidh at the gate. “Have a great day Eilidh, I hope you learn something.” To which she immediately shot back,” I hope you learn something too Mr Murray!” And I did….
Have a great week everyone.
