How Students Learn at Childwall Sports and Science Academy
At Childwall Sports & Science Academy, we want students to feel secure, challenged and supported in every lesson. Our teaching approach is designed to help students build knowledge, develop independence and achieve strong academic progress.
We use teaching methods shown to improve progress and engagement, ensuring that all students experience consistency, challenge and support in every classroom. These strategies work together to create calm, focused classrooms where students are ready to learn from the moment they arrive.
Our approach aligns with national evidence on effective teaching and learning, drawing on government guidance on evidence-informed classroom practice.
Watch the videos below to see how strategies help create classrooms where students know what to expect, can focus on learning and receive feedback that helps them improve.
Introduction
In this video, we provide an introduction to the Why Do Our Teachers Do That? series, explaining the key teaching strategies used across Childwall Sports & Science Academy.
You’ll see how our teachers create calm, focused, and inclusive classrooms, why each approach matters for learning and engagement, and how these routines and techniques help every student make progress and achieve their potential.
This video sets the stage for the series, showing how research‑informed practices are put into action every day to support student success.
Securing Attention
What is it?
Securing Attention is when teachers make sure the class is focused before lessons start.
Why do our teachers do that?
It ensures everyone hears instructions and learning begins straight away.
Student voice
“Securing attention helps the lesson start smoothly. I know when to listen, and I don’t miss important information.”
Behaviour for Learning
What is it?
Behaviour for Learning is a set of routines and expectations that keep classrooms calm, safe, and focused.
Why do our teachers do that?
Clear routines help students learn more, reduce stress, and keep lessons running smoothly.
Student voice
“Good routines help me feel more confident because I know what’s expected.”
Do Now
What is it?
Do Now is a short task at the start of a lesson to recall prior learning and get students ready.
Why do our teachers do that?
It prepares the brain for new learning and helps students focus straight away.
Student voice
“The Do Now helps me get started straight away and reminds me what I learned before.”
Mini Whiteboards
What is it?
Mini Whiteboards are used for every student to answer questions at the same time.
Why do our teachers do that?
They help teachers check understanding quickly and adjust lessons if needed.
Student voice
“I can answer without worrying about getting it wrong — it builds my confidence.”
Cold Call Questioning
What is it?
Cold Call Questioning is when teachers choose who answers questions so everyone stays involved.
Why do our teachers do that?
It keeps students thinking, encourages participation, and helps teachers see who understands.
Student voice
“It keeps me engaged because I know I might be asked to answer.”
I Do, We Do, You Do
What is it?
I Do, We Do, You Do is a teaching approach where the teacher models, students practise together, and then work independently.
Why do our teachers do that?
It builds confidence step by step and ensures students understand before working alone.
Student voice
“I like seeing how to do something first before trying it on my own.”
Turn and Talk
What is it?
Turn and Talk is when students discuss ideas with a partner before sharing with the class.
Why do our teachers do that?
It helps students practise explaining their thinking and boosts confidence.
Student voice
“Talking to a partner helps me organise my thoughts before sharing.”
