A Child-Centred Approach to Learning
A ‘one size fits all’ approach to learning cannot and will not benefit the needs of all children, thus a ‘child-centred approach to learning’ is vital for the success and confidence of every child in every class. This approach recognises that each child is unique in their interests, ability, personality and learning style. It respects their diverse abilities, talents and creativity, taking into account that each learner processes information in a different way. It also allows everyone to add value to the class so that children can contribute in a variety of ways.
Essentially, child-centred teaching and learning start from the child inside-out rather than the curriculum outside-in. The starting point is looking at the needs of each child and then building a curriculum outward from there.
This approach allows children to be challenged, and to go beyond curriculum expectations ensuring that they remain fully engaged in their learning. It also allows each child to understand new concepts at the right pace for them. The fluid nature of this approach stops children from being labelled and encourages in-depth learning.
The Child-Centred Classroom
In a child-centred classroom, there is movement, there is energy, and there is flexibility in terms of what is happening in that classroom. Children discuss, listen, research and experiment. It is a hive of activity where children are inspired and where ‘good noise’ fills the air.
The children are busy trying to achieve their goals and know that they are responsible for their learning. This develops their critical thinking skills, their ability to organise and manage their time, and finally to be reflective learners.
Whole-Child Education
At Priory, we are committed to educating and nurturing the whole child, not just their academic needs. We see children as individuals with academic needs, social-emotional needs, physical needs, as well the need for the development of character. The inclusion of Music, Art, PE, Computing, and French in the curriculum ensure that we are feeding their minds in a variety of ways whilst fostering their creativity. Our whole-child focus is really about giving children as many opportunities as possible to shine and develop.