This section provides information for schools or early years centres that have been nominated to receive Assessment is for Learning (AifL) funding to support the process of collaborative professional development.  Research and experience indicates that this model is the most effective for deep learning and changing practice. The aim of the programme is to facilitate a deeper understanding of the role assessment plays in learning, for everyone involved.

AifL is based on four big ideas about learning and the principle that everyone involved is a learner. The information included here attempts to address the first of these ‘big ideas’:

Learners learn best when they understand clearly what they are trying to learn, and what is expected of them.

In other words, research indicates that those who have an idea of what the process involves will find it easier to plan their activities for the session ahead.  The advice here is based on feedback from previous Associated Schools Groups (ASGs), whose case studies have provided insight on what might be useful for others embarking on a project investigating the process of learning - their own learning and the learning of the children and students with whom they work.