Independent learning is often seen as the holy grail of education. Teachers find it hugely rewarding and pupils discover their unique learning style. Here, Downe House School staff and students talk about how this style of learning helps them to succeed.
For a teacher, independent learning is hugely rewarding when a pupil takes the initiative to read or research beyond the curriculum simply because they feel motivated to do so. But school life is busy, and Downe House School knows that their pupils cannot always prioritise learning for learning?s sake.
How Downe House School Pupils Take Charge of Independent Learning
What are the keys to encouraging independent learning"
The Deputy Head of Downe House School, Mr Matt Godfrey, gathered a group of pupils whose teachers had informed him that the students were great examples of independent learners to understand what encourages pupils to carry out independent learning. Mr Godfrey began by clarifying with the pupils what independent learning is not, ?It is not simply working on your own without any supervision. It does not necessarily mean less teacher guidance; rather, it means receiving specific, smart guidance with independence as an end-goal. And it certainly does not mean using technology without a clear sense of focus and direction.?

Two Downe House School Sixth Formers, Louisa A and Louisa B, reminisced how they felt that GCSE students are provided with so much material to get through that there is not the time or o...