New Video Series Opens the Classroom to Parents

Childwall Sports and Science Academy is launching a new “Why Do Teachers Do That?” awareness campaign in response to growing parent interest in classroom practice. Discussions at parents’ evenings and school meetings showed families want to understand how lessons help students learn, remember knowledge, and build confidence.

The school has created clear, accessible videos explaining how lessons are structured, from routines at the start to strategies that help students retain key knowledge. They also support new Year 7 students by showing what lessons will look like, helping them feel reassured before starting secondary school.

Head of School Dr. Thomas said: “Parents rightly want to understand what happens in the classroom and why we do things in a particular way. This series opens that up. It shows the thought, research and collaboration that sits behind our teaching and the consistent approach students experience every day.”

The programme has been led by Mr. Rodgers, Assistant Headteacher, Teaching and Learning, who worked with colleagues across Lydiate Learning Trust to translate classroom practice and evidence-based research into practical explanations for families. Mr. Rodgers said: “Teachers spend a great deal of time studying what helps students learn most effectively. These videos show how routines, explanations, questioning, and practice all work together to support learning.”

Parents have welcomed the series. One parent said: “It’s really helpful to see how our children are being taught. The videos explain lessons clearly and make it easier to support learning at home.”

Students say the approach makes lessons clearer and helps them learn more confidently.

A Year 7 student said: “You always know what to do when the lesson starts and the teachers explain things step by step. It helps you stay focused and understand the work.”

A Year 9 student added: “The routines mean everyone can get on with learning straight away. Teachers check our understanding a lot, which helps you remember things for longer.”

 We hope the series will strengthen the partnership between home and school by giving families a clearer picture of the thinking behind everyday classroom practice.