Maths Coordinator Mr Wood led the Monday Magic Moment at the start of the week and talked about the concept of the Silent Teacher – perhaps a slightly different approach to learning and teaching. The strategy is used to model in silence complex teaching points that are perhaps based around several stages or steps. On a visual cue – perhaps the teacher stepping away from the board, students are encouraged to think in silence about the steps outlined so far and the next steps needed to take. The silence heightens the sense of thought and problem solving.

It encourages learning resilience and independence that is so important in developing personal strategies to make great progress. Obviously the teacher can employ other less silent strategies such as question and answer routines, think-pair-share activities and class discussion to further deepen knowledge and understanding within the framework of the silent teacher approach.

Ms Visan, one of Mr Wood’s colleagues in the Maths Faculty also wrote this text:

Our teachers at Bushey Meads play a crucial role in coaching students on how to learn and study effectively. By modeling and teaching essential skills, they help students become independent and successful learners. Known as the “silent teacher,” our educators demonstrate organisation, time management, critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning. Through structured classrooms and consistent routines, they show students how to manage their materials and time efficiently while fostering a mindset of continuous growth.

In addition to modeling these habits, teachers actively coach students with personalised strategies. They assist students in setting achievable academic goals by breaking tasks into manageable steps and tracking progress. Various note-taking methods, such as the Cornell method, mind mapping and NLP (Neuro Linguistic program) are introduced to help students discover what works best for them and also how to read and look for the most important information .Furthermore, teachers share diverse study techniques, including summarisation, self-quizzing, and spaced repetition, to enhance retention and understanding of the material.

Recognising the pressures students face, our teachers also provide guidance on stress management. They emphasize the importance of mindfulness practices, physical activity, and maintaining a balanced workload. By offering these support systems, teachers help students navigate the challenges of their academic journey with confidence and resilience.

Through both silent and active teaching methods, our educators empower students with the tools they need for academic success and beyond. We remain committed to fostering a culture of lifelong learning and personal growth, supporting our students every step of the way.