How we teach
At Liphook Federation, our teaching approach is designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and develop lifelong learners through a rich, progressive curriculum and engaging experiences.
In the early years, we begin with a play-based approach, gradually introducing more structure as children grow, so learning feels natural and developmentally appropriate. We have an integrated curriculum, this creates meaningful links between topics, helping children to make connections and apply learning in real-world contexts. We teach subjects discretely where this works best. All learning is recorded in one learning journal, with the exception of maths and extended writing. This integrated approach helps to promote high expectations across the curriculum.
We wrap learning in first-hand experiences—workshops, trips, and visits—so children can see and feel what they’re learning about. We also use immersive technology such as virtual reality and augmented reality to bring lessons to life and we use a green screen to enrich oracy outcomes.
Our teachers use the “I Do – We Do – You Do” model to scaffold learning:
I Do – The teacher explains and models.
We Do – Children practise together with support.
You Do – Children apply their learning independently.
Learning tools such as working walls, scaffolds, word banks etc are used to support learning.
Wherever possible, we use a hands-on approach to learning. For example, in maths we use the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) approach, starting with concrete resources before moving to pictures and then abstract, ensuring deep conceptual understanding. In science, children test hypotheses using practical investigation.
iPads are used as a tool for learning throughout the federation
- Assistive technology is used to support individual needs, e.g. Clicker 8 helps to scaffold writing
- From Year R to Year 3, pupils use Seesaw, this enables them to access interactive activities, record learning in a variety of ways and share learning with their families
- From Year 4, pupils use OneNote, this enables them to independently revisit previous learning, access support scaffolds and resources, access extension activities, and organise work. Adaptations such as filters and Immersive Reader also make content accessible for all learners.
Oracy (speaking and listening) is the lifeblood of teaching and learning at Liphook Federation. Children learn to talk and talk to learn, developing reasoning, communication, and collaboration skills. Alongside this, we teach learning behaviours such as resilience, independence, critical thinking, growth mindset and listening to feedback, through our Learning Hearts approach.
