Learning at ASATeaching & Learning
This is how we learn:
Our approach to learning is based on how the brain works.
When students first encounter new information, it goes into their working memory - a space that can only hold a small amount at once. If this becomes overloaded, learning is easily lost.
To make learning stick, students need to move knowledge into their long-term memory, where it can be stored and used later.
We support this by helping students to:
Focus and avoid distractions so their working memory isn’t overloaded
Think deeply about what they are learning
Practise retrieving knowledge regularly
Interact with information (e.g. discussing, explaining, or using visuals)
In simple terms:
Learning happens when students think hard, make connections, and practise remembering.
How We Teach
Our teaching model is designed to make learning clear, consistent and effective in every lesson.
- Each lesson follows a structured sequence:
- Strong start – students begin learning straight away with a short retrieval task
- Clear explanation – teachers introduce new ideas in small, manageable steps
- Guided practice – students practise with support before working independently
- Checking understanding – teachers regularly check what students know and address misconceptions
- Review and recall – key learning is revisited to help it stick
This structure ensures:
- Students always know what to expect
- Teachers can focus on high-quality explanations and practice
- Learning builds securely over time
Our approach is grounded in research, recognising that:
“Thinking hard leads to memory – we must make students think hard.”
Bringing It Together
- How we learn explains what needs to happen in the brain
- How we teach ensures our lessons make that happen
By combining both, we create classrooms where students can:
- Build knowledge step by step
- Develop confidence
- Remember more over time
STAR is a simple way to help students remember how to behave so they can learn successfully in every lesson.
It stands for:
- S – Sit up
Be ready to learn by sitting attentively and facing the front. - T – Tune in to the speaker
Focus carefully on whoever is speaking, whether that’s the teacher or another student. - A – Ask and answer questions
Take part in learning by thinking, contributing ideas and responding to questions. - R – Respect everyone around you
Show kindness and consideration so everyone can learn in a positive environment.
Why STAR matters
STAR behaviours help students to:
- Stay focused and avoid distractions
- Take an active role in their learning
- Build confidence when sharing ideas
- Create a calm, respectful classroom for everyone
In short, STAR helps students get the most out of every lesson by being ready, focused and engaged learners.
Pinpoint the Positive
Pinpoint the Positive is our approach to recognising and reinforcing great learning behaviours in the classroom.
In every lesson, teachers actively look for and highlight the specific things students are doing well — for example, showing focus, trying a challenging task, or contributing thoughtful ideas. These positive behaviours are recorded throughout the day on Bromcom.
Students earn points for their efforts, which are converted into tickets. These tickets can be exchanged at our swap shop for a range of rewards.
Why it matters
Pinpointing the positive helps students to:
- Understand exactly what good learning looks like
- Feel recognised and motivated
- Build confidence and positive habits
- Create a supportive and encouraging classroom environment
In short, it helps us notice, name and build on success, so all students can thrive.