Our Learning Model
At Thornbury High School, we believe that great teaching has the greatest impact on student learning. Our approach to teaching and learning is intentional, research-informed and designed to ensure every student experiences consistent, high-quality instruction in every classroom.
Educational research is clear that what happens in the classroom matters most. Studies from the Australian Education Research Organisation, the Grattan Institute and John Hattie’s Visible Learning research highlight the importance of explicit teaching, clarity of purpose and structured opportunities for students to practise, think and reflect.
Guided by this research, staff expertise and student voice, Thornbury High School has developed a shared Learning Model.
The Learning Model
The Learning Culture
An optimal Climate for Learning
Learning at Thornbury High School is underpinned by strong relationships, clear routines and high expectations. Classrooms are calm and focused on learning.
Learning growth is supported by the deliberate development of positive learning behaviours. Students in our lessons are guided to:
-
Arrive prepared and ready to learn
-
Engage actively for the first take
-
Collaborate effectively about their learning with peers
-
Apply learning independently with effort
-
Reflect on learning beyond the classroom
Instructional Coaching for Teachers
At Thornbury High School, we recognise that great teaching requires continuous learning and improvement. Our Instructional Coaching program provides teachers with opportunities to reflect on their classroom practice, receive constructive feedback and collaboratively refine their teaching.
This commitment to professional growth helps ensure our Learning Model is not simply a shared framework, but an approach that continues to develop and improve across our classrooms. Improvement is part of the school culture.
ENGAGE Connect students to the learning, establish purpose and activate prior knowledge
MODEL New knowledge can be digested. Explicit explanation of the new skill, concept, or behaviour.
COLLABORATE All students discuss and articulate their understanding through respectful peer interaction.
APPLY All students will practice and demonstrate their understanding
WONDER All students think deeply and make better sense of new information.
REVIEW Students and teachers check understanding, reflect on progress and identify next steps