At ESA, we are pioneering a new approach to our learning together. Inspired by the work of Bill Lucas and Guy Claxton, we are implementing a ‘split screen’ curriculum where we focus even more on the person we want to become as well as the outcomes we want to achieve.

Claxton and Lucas helpfully introduce the idea of ‘split screening’
in their book called ‘Educating Ruby,' which we have spent the past year planning and implementing. On one screen is the examination game - this game is well understood by Oftsed and people who look at school league tables. This examination game is the one most schools focus on the most - In this game you are either satisfied or dissatisfied, you either win or lose. The sad thing is there are lots of losers in this game.

“Examination boards (and politicians) are constantly tinkering with pass marks and grade boundaries... the fact is that a lot of children have got to do badly at the examination game; it is a statistical necessity. It’s a deceitful claim that everyone can win if they try hard enough.” [Claxton & Lucas, Educating Ruby, Crown House Publishing, 2015]

The  7Cs

'Educating Ruby' (paperback) by Guy Claxton and Bill Lucas