Learning & teaching

Learning and teaching are at the centre of everything we do at Thurso High School. We are committed to ensuring that every young person experiences high quality learning in every classroom. Teachers make hundreds of decisions each day—how to question, motivate, explain, give feedback and shape the pace of learning—all while building strong relationships and creating a positive classroom environment. To do this well, we rely on up to date research and strong subject knowledge to inform our practice.

To support this, we have developed a Lesson Evaluation Toolkit, which provides a clear framework for planning, self evaluation, coaching and professional dialogue. It helps us maintain a consistent focus on the continuous improvement of teaching and learning across the school.

We also have two Research Leads who engage with current educational research and support the delivery of our whole school professional learning programme, Becoming a More Research Informed Teacher. This programme helps staff embed evidence based, effective teaching strategies throughout the year.

Improving learning and teaching is a core part of every teacher’s professional learning plan. We place strong emphasis on reflective practice, self evaluation and supportive professional discussions, recognising that individual teacher development is just as important as whole school improvement.

CPD

Continual Professional Development

Our continual professional development (CPD) programme is now a well established part of the school year, following a consistent and effective termly cycle. The focus for staff learning is shaped by our Lesson Evaluation Toolkit, alongside insights from classroom observations, pupil feedback, surveys and focus groups. Classroom observations take place through planned whole school sessions as well as termly Learning Walks.

Each term, staff engage with a research informed input led by one of our Research Leads. This is followed by Faculty based development work and a whole school session dedicated to sharing good practice or participating in further targeted workshops.

Staff consistently report that our CPD programme is highly valuable, supporting both individual professional growth and the continual improvement of learning and teaching across the school.

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