Competition can be helpful in the classroom – but teachers need to use it carefully

When it comes to introducing competition into your classroom, opinion is both fierce and divided. Is a little healthy rivalry useful for motivation? Or should students focus solely on their own achievements? Psychologist Bradley Busch and teacher Dave Marsham discuss the science and practicality of this controversial topic. "It can motivate and ins...

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The London Challenge

Gabriel Heller Sahlgren, PhD student at LSE and Political Science and Director of Research, Centre for the Study of Market Reform in Education (CMRE), shares his thoughts on one of the most talked about issues in education. 'The London Challenge' a policy designed to create a "step change" in the performance of London secondary schools.  An im...

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Teacher textbooks are failing trainees. They peddle debunked ideas rather than evidence-based learning strategies.

Common sense suggests, scientific research tells you, and Pisa proves it; what makes the biggest difference to student outcomes is the teacher in front of the class. That means if you really want to improve the school system, you need to focus on teacher training and professional development. Teachers need the core knowledge to plan, deve...

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Laugh it up: how comedy can improve students’ writing skills

Research from the National Literacy Trust has found that young people who enjoy writing very much are seven times more likely to write above the level expected for their age, compared with those who do not enjoy writing at all. But enjoying writing isn't merely a matter of ability. The subject matter can makes all the difference – which is where co...

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Focus on ... Stephen Tierney: honest reflections on the current and future vocation of school leadership

Stephen Tierney is the executive director of the Blessed Edward Bamber Catholic Multi Academy Trust (or BEBCMAT). The trust, based in Blackpool, comprises of three academies – two primaries Christ the King and St. Cuthbert's, and one secondary St. Mary's. A regular and popular speaker at education conferences, Stephen has a brilliant reputation as ...

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