Independent Learning at Gors

At Gors, we have been developing our independent learning approach to ensure that our pupils become ‘Independent Capable Learners’.

Mrs Symons and Mr Webster have been working on this new approach by trailing and now embedding this throughout the school. They have successfully undertaken research, and visited other schools to gather ideas to implement.

Independent learning is an educational approach where children take ownership of their learning, planning and executing tasks with minimal support. It empowers students to set goals, manage their time, and self-reflect on their progress.

At Gors, we have created ‘Missions’, which are challenges where children are given time to complete independent tasks. A mission can be linked to our topic and/or planned through pupil voice, taking into account what the children want to learn. They are renewed on a 2-week cycle and cover each area of learning.

Each class in PS2/3 has created an independent learning space outside of the classroom, where children can access a quiet area to complete their Missions. Resources are available and accessible to children at all times, allowing them to carry out research or complete their work to the best of their ability.

While we have these spaces, we are also developing a ‘Exploring Den’, which is a classroom specifically designed for independent learning. Children will be able to access this room independently throughout the school day, and this room is also resourced with various materials to ensure Missions can be completed successfully.

The children have thoroughly enjoyed this new approach to their learning and it has really helped to boost self-esteem, confidence, and resilience, whilst empowering them to become proactive, capable, and confident learners.

This approach reduces dependency on adult, decreases frustration, and fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision- making skills. It also improves emotional well-being and encourages responsibility, social cooperation, and adaptability. 

Example of a Mission 

Missions display in class