Staff from across education will take part in innovative training about the brain and how learning happens.
‘Let’s Think’ is the subject of an in-service training (INSET) day on Friday 2 June.
The day complements one of the central principles of the Programme for Government – that learning is lifelong.
‘Let’s Think’ follows the successful all-Island INSET day last June based around ‘Learning Dialogues’.
Resources this year have been developed through the Department of Education and Children working collaboratively with international educational writers and presenters Ian Gilbert, Dave Harris and David Hodgson.
The day itself will involve nearly 900 staff from all 37 schools and the DEC’s other services.
As well as benefiting students of all ages, the day will allow for professional development that enables staff to explore key ideas but is also personalised to each establishment’s own improvement priorities.
Geoff Moorcroft, Director of Education, said:
‘Our knowledge of the brain has advanced significantly over the last 20 years. Much of what we now know about learning was not understood previously.
‘The INSET day is an opportunity for staff to develop an understanding of neuroscience and the psychology of learning that is relevant to their own areas.
‘It will also help us progress a strategic priority of the Department, to further develop the Essentials for Learning – or six Rs – curriculum.’
Jan Gimbert, Secondary School Improvement Adviser, said:
‘Lifelong learning is one of the main principles underpinning the Programme for Government.
‘A focus on the learning process as well as opportunities is key to ensuring learners achieve their goals, at any stage of life.
‘For example, a recent report from the Royal Academy of Engineering suggested a focus on skills such as resourcefulness, resilience, collaboration and curiosity were crucial in developing effective engineers.
‘The training will examine how teachers can support the development of these sorts of skills in our children and young people.’
