Tri-Learning: A Genuine Whole-School Approach towards Building a Learning Community

All teaching staff at Balfron High School are involved in an extensive programme of observing each other's lessons. The observations have a planned, predetermined focus which is non-judgmental and the sessions culminate in a discussion in larger groups and a plenary session involving the whole staff.

The key focus for each round of observations has a set observation pro-forma which avoids valued judgements, gathering objective data on, for example, questioning. Feedback has been extremely positive across all areas with staff emphasising many benefits in addition to the main focus, such as seeing pupils in a different light and highlighting connections between different subject areas.

The concept incorporates aspects of the Learning Rounds initiative but crucially includes the observed teachers in the follow-up discussions. This is a model which is simple to set up and easily transferable to any sector, but especially Secondary schools.

Frank Hotchkiss

Frank Hotchkiss is a Principal Teacher of Learning and Teaching and Pastoral Care in Balfron High School. Subject specialisms are Modern Studies, History, Sociology and Geography. Frank came to teaching later in life and quickly moved to the promoted post he currently holds, having previously taught in Gleniffer High School. Frank has undertaken a number of ad hoc pieces of work for LTS (Recognising Achievement Pilot Co-ordinator) and the SQA (including writing for a SWG). Frank is the co-author of the Tri-Learning programme with Paul Rodger.

Additional speaker: Paul Rodger, Kate Hurman, Sheena Boyle, Douglas Scott