AN INDEPENDENT school has launched a new Centre for Learning and Research, saying it is part of a strategy to bridge the gap between education, research and real-world learning in the classroom.
Based at Downe House School in Cold Ash, the aim is to integrate the role of research with the education of young people.
Dr Andy Atherton, director of learning and research at the school, said, ‘It is vital that we make the connection between evidence-based research and learning progress.
“Like many other schools, we want our pupils to be as successful as possible and to help them maximise their learning outcomes. That means exploring new concepts, embracing the latest thinking and ensuring that where relevant, this filters down into the classroom.”
As part of this, it is to hold two events that will champion the role of research in education.
The first will be in the summer, and then during Lent 2025. Other prep schools from within the local and wider community will be invited to take part.
“The last decade has seen an explosion of interest in the related fields of mind, brain and education science,” Dr Atherton said.
“The work of the Centre for Learning and Research is to ensure that Downe House always remains at the forefront of these conversations, using the latest findings in cognitive psychology and neuroscience so that our teachers teach better, and our pupils learn more.”
