Great Teaching: Metacognition in Practice – Enabling Pupils to Achieve

Suitable for: Headteacher, Subject Leaders, Teachers, ECTs, LTA

Course code Keystages Presented by
PTL172 Foundation; KS1; KS2
  • Ian Richardson (Teaching and Learning Consultant)

This course will help schools who have already started their journey in metacognitive teaching and learning, and schools who are beginning this journey. The course will help participants to:
• Deepen their understanding of metacognition, including the key elements of metacognitive knowledge and regulation that underpin effective learning
• Refine current classroom practice by evaluating what works and identifying ways to strengthen existing metacognitive approaches
• Learn practical, teachable strategies that help pupils think more deeply, prepare for future learning, and become independent, life long learners.


Unlock the Power of Metacognition
Metacognition - often described as “learning to learn” - is one of the most effective ways to boost pupil progress and independence. The EEF highlights Metacognition and Self Regulation as having "high impact, for very low cost based on extensive evidence", and some studies suggest disadvantaged pupils are less likely to use metacognitive strategies unless explicitly taught to do so. In her book 'Reaching the Unseen Children', Jean Gross identifies metacognitive learning as one of the tools for closing the attainment gap for disadvantaged pupils.
But how do you bring metacognition to life in the classroom? How can teachers model, teach, and embed these powerful thinking skills so that every learner thrives?
Transform Your Teaching
This practical course is designed for schools already exploring metacognitive approaches and ready to take the next step, and for schools just starting out on their metacognitive journey. Across the two focused sessions, participants will:
• Deepen understanding of what metacognition really looks like in everyday teaching
• Reflect on and refine current classroom practice – teachers may already be using some metacognitive strategies, but these often need to be more explicit.
• Learn practical, easy to apply strategies that help pupils think more deeply, plan their learning, and build the independence they need to succeed.
Two Mornings… an opportunity to feedback and evaluate
Delivered across two morning sessions, this course gives participants time to test out new approaches between sessions, helping to embed strategies with confidence and purpose. Participants are expected to attend both sessions.

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