Building Learning Power and Growth Mindset

At Birch Hill Primary School, we believe that learning is not always easy. New learning can be challenging and sometimes children may feel unsure, confused or even stuck. We teach our children that this is a normal and important part of the learning process and often refer to it as the Learning Pit.

We want every child to develop the confidence, resilience and determination to tackle challenges, persevere when learning becomes difficult and take pride in their achievements.

 

 

What is Building Learning Power?

Building Learning Power (BLP) is an approach developed by Professor Guy Claxton that helps children become more effective, independent and lifelong learners.

BLP teaches children how learning happens and helps them develop the attitudes, behaviours and habits that enable them to succeed both in school and beyond.

Through BLP, children learn to:

• Enjoy learning.
• Become more independent thinkers.
• Approach challenges positively.
• Develop confidence in their abilities.
• Reflect on and improve their learning.
• Become lifelong learners.

BLP encourages children to understand that intelligence and ability can develop over time through effort, practice and perseverance.

 

Our Learning Powers

BLP is built around four key learning dispositions, often referred to as learning muscles. Just as physical muscles become stronger through exercise, learning muscles become stronger through regular practice.

Resilience

Children learn to:

• Persevere when learning is challenging.
• Stay focused.
• Manage distractions.
• Keep trying when things become difficult.

Resourcefulness

Children learn to:

• Ask questions.
• Make links between ideas.
• Use a range of strategies.
• Think creatively when solving problems.

Reflectiveness

Children learn to:

• Think about how they learn.
• Evaluate their progress.
• Identify next steps.
• Learn from mistakes.

Reciprocity

Children learn to:

• Work collaboratively.
• Listen to others.
• Share ideas.
• Support and learn from their peers.

Teaching Building Learning Power

Building Learning Power does not replace what we teach; it enhances how children learn.

Teachers explicitly teach and model learning behaviours and encourage children to recognise which learning muscles they are using during lessons. Children are given opportunities to discuss their learning, reflect on challenges and identify strategies that help them succeed.

We encourage children to view mistakes as an important part of learning. Rather than giving up when faced with a challenge, children are supported to analyse what went wrong, explore alternative approaches and persevere until they find a solution.

Teachers celebrate effort, determination and progress alongside achievement, helping children understand that learning is a journey.

Growth Mindset

At Birch Hill, we promote a Growth Mindset approach. Children learn that abilities are not fixed and that they can improve through practice, effort and effective strategies.

We encourage children to:

• Embrace challenges.
• Learn from mistakes.
• Value effort.
• Seek feedback.
• Believe in their ability to improve.

This helps children develop confidence, resilience and a positive attitude towards learning.

Children as Learners

As children progress through the school, they develop a shared language for talking about learning.

Children might say:

• "I showed resilience when I kept trying."
• "I was resourceful when I found a different strategy."
• "I was reflective when I reviewed my work."
• "I used reciprocity when I worked with my partner."

By Year 6, children have developed a strong understanding of all of the learning muscles and are increasingly able to take ownership of their own learning.

Preparing Children for the Future

Our aim is not simply to help children succeed at Birch Hill, but to develop the attitudes, behaviours and learning habits that will support them throughout secondary school, further education, employment and adult life.

Through Building Learning Power and Growth Mindset, we help children become confident, resilient and reflective learners who are ready to embrace future challenges and opportunities.