Arnold House School

ETHOS:
A compass is a navigational instrument for finding directions on the earth.

The Compass Course at Arnold House was similarly established as a learning initiative where children find their own way; mentally orienteering themselves along a voyage of self-discovery.

The Compass Course aims to encourage independent learning in Years Five and Six. Independent learning is an identified methodology for developing the skills and disposition in pupils to become independent. The theory is that independent learning succeeds because it focuses the pupils on the process of learning. The skills and knowledge become the context in which pupils are working. It is essential that they reflect on their successes and mistakes in a way that enables the pupils to learn from them. Group dialogue, teacher facilitation and problem solving all have key roles to play.
During Compass, boys work in collaborative groups. These vary in composition, where mixed ability and different learning styles provide added challenge and value to the learning experience. By working collaboratively, students are able to share and recognise talents. Research indicates that pupils working in groups enjoy learning more, work harder thanks to mutually supportive motivation and attain at higher levels.

AIMS:
•    To encourage independent study and autonomous learning.
•    To promote collaborative group work.
•    To develop research skills and make optimum use of resources centres.
•    To use technology (ICT) to produce real and relevant outcomes.
•    To encourage effective oral communication of knowledge and ideas.
•    To encourage the use of thinking skills programmes and approaches to learning.