“[At Sunningdale School] teachers observe pupils carefully. They build up a picture of what each child finds motivating and engaging. This information is then used to create exciting and purposeful learning activities.” – Ofsted (June 2023)

In this session participants were taken through the Sunningdale School’s unique use of the Engagement Model and how its use has been developed to effectively underpin Pre-formal, Semi-formal and Informal Curriculum Approaches including play-based-learning. It will also explore the schools development and use of engagement motivators.

We all strive for our pupils to be active agents, as opposed to passive recipients, in their learning and development. The starting point for this is an understanding of what each child’s ability to engage with their environment looks like. This information can be used to create overall teaching environments and develop approaches that create the maximum potential for learning for individual pupils.

“…documents come to life in the classrooms, which are set out with engaging learning resources that hook pupils into learning.” – Ofsted (June 2023)

Without engagement, there is no deep learning, effective teaching, meaningful outcome, real attainment or quality progress.

This session is for both special and mainstream settings. It is ideal for leaders and teachers who want to develop approaches for using engagement to support active and self-initiated learning. It would also be appropriate for any member of staff that wants to know more about or re-visit the use of the Engagement Model.

Presented by James Waller Headteacher/ Frances Mihailovic Explore Pathway Lead, Sunningdale School