Developing Curious Learners in Creative Ways with Sarah Hepworth

 In this episode, Toria chats to Sarah Hepworth about developing curious learners in creative ways. As an experienced English Leader of over 10 years, Sarah feels passionately about developing learners who are given the opportunity to develop their imagination, ask questions and be curious. 

Sarah uses her knowledge of the EEF through her role with Derby Research School to also talk about the ShREC model, which is part of the EYFS guidance to effective adult and pupil interaction. By being creative with how we develop those small and natural moments of curiosity, we can engage in conversations with our pupils and, importantly, spark, watch, listen and inspire. Who doesn’t love a good question? Time is precious in the classroom but we can creatively use a picture, role play, a cube, a suitcase, anything to hook our learners in and, with a culture where curiosity is allowed to flourish, enable learners to grow, be independent and be curious. 

Sarah is currently a Year 4 leader in a 3 form primary, where she is part of the Senior Management Team. She is part of the Teaching & Learning leadership team and an English leader. Alongside this, she works with Derby Research School and the Open University in her roles as an Evidence Lead in Education and a Teacher Reader Group Leader.