Building High Performers: Developing superior cognitive performance in all students.

We place learners and pedagogy at the heart of the HPL framework reinforcing what can be achieved at a whole-school level to optimise learning opportunities, individual support and personal motivation.

Key Principles of HPL

High academic performance is attainable for everyone.

We can systematically teach students how to be 'intelligent' and how to succeed in school.

There are 20 generic characteristics which students need to develop if they are to be high performers in cognitive domains (ACPS) and 10, values, attitudes and attributes (VAAs) that develop the wider learner dispositions needed for cognitive and lifetime success.

Schools seeking these outcomes are aware there is no quick-fix, and instead they need to foster a professional community of practice among their educators.

World class schools produce students that are both intellectually and socially confident.

The Philosophy and Framework

HPL is not just another school improvement process, but instead identifies the key components needed to make high performance a reality.

The successful students HPL aims to create are not just exam passers but independent thoughtful individuals ready to excel both in school and beyond. The HPL student profile outlines the dimensions of success, focusing on nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for life's challenges.

We know that the more skilled the school community is in exploiting the HPL philosophy and framework the better the outcomes. In particular, depth and effective use of the Advanced Cognitive Performance Characteristics (ACPs) and Values, Attitudes and Attributes (VAAs) in classrooms coupled with the 7 Pillars is the recipe for success.

The Success Competencies

At the core of High Performance Learning (HPL) are the Advanced Cognitive Performance Characteristics (ACPs) and Values, Attributes, and Attitudes (VAAs), which fundamentally shape teaching and learning within schools. These are the essential competencies students must master over time to achieve high levels of success. Research shows that high achievers consistently use these behaviours in their work, forming the foundation of their success.

This language becomes the foundation of teaching and learning within HPL schools, creating a shared vocabulary that empowers students and staff to communicate effectively about learning.

ACPs and VAAs are not taught in isolation but are integrated seamlessly into regular lessons. This integration is crucial because students require frequent and regular practice to master these skills. The more opportunities students have to practice, the more proficient they become.

Teachers play a pivotal role in this process. They are deliberate and systematic in creating opportunities within their lessons to develop these competencies, ensuring that the focus remains on ACPs and VAAs. This shift in teaching methodology not only enhances student learning but also enriches the teaching experience.

Success Competencies Framework

HPL identifies 30 generic Success Competencies that students need to develop. These competencies are organised into eight sets, which are further distributed across five levels, ranging from novice to expert. This structured framework provides a clear pathway for student growth and development, guiding them from foundational skills to advanced expertise.

For example, we have the process you would follow for one of the success competencies listed below.

Stage 1 - Novice

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 4

Stage 5 (Expert)

Transforming educational practices

HPL transforms educational practices by embedding these principles into the fabric of teaching and learning. Through innovative methods, students are encouraged to explore their potential, embrace challenges, and achieve excellence across all domains.

By adopting the HPL framework, schools establish a common language that unites students, teachers, and administrators in the pursuit of excellence. This shared vocabulary fosters collaboration, mutual understanding, and a commitment to high performance across the entire educational community.

Become a World Class School

Start your journey if:

You believe that #EveryoneCan
We can systematically teach students how to be ‘intelligent’ and succeed in school and life
You can develop the cognitive competencies associated with cognitive success and make them the DNA of our teaching
You do not follow a one-size fits all approach