Learning Powers

Building Learning Power at Our Federation

At Oakengates Nursery School, we help children learn how to learn.

Our approach to Learning Powers is research-informed and based on the work of educationalist and cognitive scientist Guy Claxton, who developed the concept of Building Learning Power. His research shows that children who develop strong learning behaviours are better able to think deeply, concentrate effectively and enjoy their learning.

We adapt this research in age-appropriate, child-friendly ways so that even our youngest learners can begin to understand themselves as capable, confident learners.

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What Are Learning Powers?

Learning Powers are the skills and attitudes children need to become confident, independent learners. They help children to try new things, keep going when learning feels tricky, work with others and think about their learning.

We teach these in fun and meaningful ways through:

• stories

• puppets and animal characters

• role play

• play-based learning

• everyday conversations

This helps children understand what these learning behaviours look like in real life.

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Our Four Learning Powers

Our Learning Powers

We focus on four key Learning Powers:

🌟 Resilience - Ruby Rhino

Keeping going when learning feels tricky

Children learn to:

• try again when something is hard

• concentrate and stay involved

• notice details

• persevere and not give up

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🌟 Resourcefulness - Sammy Squirrel 

Finding different ways to solve problems

Children learn to:

• ask questions

• make links between ideas

• use their imagination

• think things through

• use resources around them

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🌟 Reflectiveness - Tallulah Turtle

Thinking about learning

Children learn to:

• plan what they want to do

• change their ideas if something isn’t working

• talk about what they have learned

• think about how they can improve next time

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🌟 Reciprocity - Team Ant

Learning with others

Children learn to:

• work together

• listen to their friends

• show kindness and empathy

• share ideas

• learn from one another

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Our Expectations

Alongside our Learning Powers, we encourage children every day to:

Work Hard, Be Honest and Be Kind

These values are embedded through routines, play and positive adult role modelling, helping children develop strong relationships, confidence and a positive approach to learning.

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Why Learning Powers Matter

By developing Learning Powers from an early age, children learn to:

• approach new challenges with confidence

• work independently and with others

• solve problems creatively

• talk about their thinking

• build resilience and self-belief

These foundations support children to be ready for school and prepared for their lifelong learning journey.