It’s usual for me to reflect on children’s learning, but this week it feels right to think about adult learning too — and what children gain from seeing it in action.
I spent the early part of the week with colleagues undertaking a peer review. This was challenging for everyone involved: those being reviewed, and those carrying out the review. It required openness, thoughtful questioning, and honest professional dialogue. In doing this work, it became clear that those of us completing the review learned just as much as those being reviewed.
Later in the week, Katie reached the final stages of her Forest Leader Level 8 qualification and was assessed by her course tutor. Being observed is always stressful, but with the support of the children and our staff team, she absolutely aced the assessment, and we are incredibly proud of her.
Both experiences show that meaningful learning often involves challenge and uncertainty.
When adults are willing to keep learning and push themselves despite this, children benefit in two ways: through strengthened practice, and by seeing learning modelled as something positive, worthwhile, and exciting.
As we head towards the half-term break, it feels like a good moment to recognise the value of adults continuing to learn, even when it feels hard. When children see this, they learn that learning is something to enjoy, not something to fear.
Choose one small thing to learn alongside your child this week — tying a knot, learning a new word, fixing something simple, or following a new recipe. Let your child see you practise, make mistakes, and keep going.
Cambusbarron Village Nursery 