Challenge in lessons is a key focus at Bournville; we aim to stretch and support all students in the classroom, ensuring that every child gains a wealth of knowledge, understanding and skills across all lessons.
Students are taught it is okay to struggle as struggling develops grit and perseverance that leads to success. The Learning Pit, first created by James Nottingham is the model used in classrooms to help students think and talk about learning by promoting “challenge, dialogue, and a growth mindset.”
Tutor groups were challenged to create dedicated ‘Learning Pit’ displays that could be referred to when learning. You can see just some of them below. We know that when students talk about their own learning, it helps them to understand the progress they are making.
When students enter the Learning Pit, they are reminded about the deep learning that is taking place. Students may get frustrated or want to give up, but teachers remind them to keep a growth mindset. Students will overcome the Learning Pit and eventually reach the eureka stage. This is when they feel a sense of understanding and the satisfaction of learning. We celebrate when students persevere through the Learning Pit to acknowledge that it pays off to work through challenges.
