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Creating cognitively challenging classrooms: three-part course

Creating cognitively challenging classrooms:

three-part online course

Three-part online course

3.45 - 5.15pm
Primary: 19 Jan, 9 Feb, 9 Mar
Secondary: 21 Jan, 11 Feb, 11 Mar

Drawing on NACE’s recent research publication, Cognitive challenge: principles into practice, this three-part online course explores how to create cognitively challenging classrooms. The course will focus on the three pillars of cognitive challenge identified in the research: curriculum organisation and design; design and management of learning; language and discourse.

There are separate strands for primary and secondary practitioners, with gap tasks between each session to support delegates in applying the course content in their own school context.

Delegates will also receive a copy of the research report.

Read more from course co-leader Dr Keith Watson.

For more information about how our online training works, click here.

Members Membership starts from £95 +VAT per year for the whole school.

Attendee Price
£265.00
Book now

Non-members

Attendee Price
£375.00
Book now


3.45-5.15pm

Primary practitioners: Tuesday 19 January

Secondary practitioners: Thursday 21 January

  • Characteristics of more able learners
  • How pedagogical principles and strategies need to align with learning dispositions
  • The pillars of cognitive challenge

Gap task: Based on the ideas shared, what changes will you take to improve the level of challenge?

3.45-5.15pm

Primary practitioners: Tuesday 9 February

Secondary practitioners: Thursday 11 February

  • How does current educational thinking relate to more able learners? (Rosenshine, instructional models, metacognition, etc)
  • The teacher’s role in developing independence
  • The skills students need

Gap task: Based on the ideas shared, how will you develop greater independence with your students?

3.45-5.15pm

Primary practitioners: Tuesday 9 March

Secondary practitioners: Thursday 11 March

  • The importance of effective questioning
  • Promoting high-level talk in the classroom
  • The language of learning

Reflection: Based on this course, what will you embed in your classroom and beyond?

Course leaders

Hilary Lowe
, NACE Education Adviser

With extensive experience in the education sector and a longstanding focus on more able provision, Hilary plays a key role in developing NACE's CPD, research, policy and guidance for schools.

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Dr Keith Watson
, NACE Associate

With over 30 years’ experience in primary settings, Dr Keith Watson provides CPD and consultancy, drawing on his experience as a former MAT CEO, Teaching School Leader and published researcher.

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Laura March
, NACE Associate

Senior School Improvement Leader with responsibility for more able learners, pedagogy, and evidence-based research; leader of the NACE R&D Hub at Southend High School for Boys.

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Praesent Erat Ligula, Dignissim
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