The most recent DfES policy and guidance on school improvement promotes the view that further improvements in raising attainment are most likely to be achieved by empowering teachers to find 'local solutions' to barriers to learning which children experience. One of the main barriers to learning has been meeting the different learning styles of the children in any given class. Mind Friendly Learning has placed answering the question 'What are the elements for effective learning?' at the core of its philosophy and this has also been the driving force behind the work of lead learners.
The Mind Friendly Learning training programme recognises the importance of lead learners and builds them into their programme. Lead learners who have attended the training agree to undertake action research in their own classrooms, trying out and adapting mind friendly approaches and honestly reflecting with other lead learners what works. This group support provides a momentum after the initial training for teachers to apply their new learning in the classroom and share their findings with colleagues in their schools.
Being an active Lead Learner requires a number of characteristics. The first is a real interest in how children and adults learn and a belief that we all have the potential for unlimited lifelong learning. Secondly, they have to be willing to take risks by trying out new approaches in their classrooms and then spending time analysing and reflecting on the outcomes. Some lead learners have had the opportunity to work with other teachers utilising approaches such as co-coaching. This approach in particular is having a significant impact on developing the range of teaching and learning strategies teachers are using in their classrooms.
The case studies included in this section are a testimony to the exciting and interesting developments in approaches to learning undertaken by lead learners in South Liverpool. I am sure they will be of practical interest to many other teachers.
Supporting lead learners is a priority for the South Liverpool Learning Network, both in undertaking further action research in their classrooms and sharing best practice between themselves and a wider audience of teachers across the network.
Dave Woodhouse
Learning Network Co-ordinator for South Liverpool