Active learning in Minishant

Active learning is learning which engages and challenges children’s thinking using real-life and imaginary situations. It takes full advantage of the opportunities for learning presented by spontaneous and purposeful play, investigating, and life experiences.

Minishant Primary School

Minishant Primary is a small school in South Ayrshire with around 30 pupils. The small school roll dictates that composite classes are the norm and an active learning approach is viewed as crucial to classroom management.

The daily routine for pupils is a mixture of group work, working in pairs or interacting on a one-to-one basis with a member of staff. The number of pupils in the school allows for pupils of different ages to work together, when appropriate. This buddy system contributes many positive aspects to learning and teaching.

Assessment is for Learning (AifL) is well embedded in all areas of learning and the staff see active learning and AifL as totally compatible. The active learning approach has also ensured that the school is well placed to implement Curriculum for Excellence. The staff are confident that the school provides an environment for the values, purposes and principles to be nurtured within every pupil.

Video resource

A collection of videos showcase the approach used at Minishant Primary. Each video shows the pupils taking part in a different active learning exercise. The teachers involved also discuss the different techniques used and the benefits that are gained. The pupils, from P1 to P7, took part in a range of activities including mathematics, problem solving, science activities and phonics. Each tab at the top of this page represents a different activity.

Introduction to active learning

The first video features Minishant headteacher Davina Hose introducing the concept of active learning. She also highlights the benefits of this teaching approach and how well it aligns with Curriculum for Excellence.