Learning Conversations: Listening, Reflecting and Improving

This term, all pupils took part in our first whole-school programme of Learning Conversations as part of our wider Tracking, Monitoring and Reporting approach. These conversations sit alongside our online progress reporting system, giving pupils regular opportunities to discuss their learning, progress, strengths and next steps with their teachers. Parents, carers and learners can continue to access progress information through our Didbook online reporting system. Linlithgow Academy provides all parents/carers and learners with online access to this progress reporting system.

As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we asked pupils across the school to share feedback on their experience. We were delighted to receive a large number of responses which have provided valuable insights into what worked well and where we can improve.

What did pupils tell us?

The overwhelmingly positive message was that pupils value having dedicated time to talk about their learning. Many pupils reported that the conversations helped them:

• Better understand their progress.
• Identify their strengths and areas for development.
• Agree meaningful next steps.
• Share their views and reflect on their learning.
• Receive personalised feedback from teachers.

One of the strongest themes was the value pupils placed on discussing next steps. Many reported that they had already acted upon feedback received and felt clearer about how to improve their work and achieve their goals.

It was also encouraging to see that pupils appreciated having the opportunity to contribute their own views. Developing learner voice and encouraging pupils to take ownership of their learning remains a key priority for the school.

What could be improved?

While pupils were positive about the conversations themselves, they also identified some important areas for development.

The most common concern related to the amount of class time required when conversations were taking place across every subject. Pupils suggested that future conversations could be spread out over a longer period to reduce disruption to learning.

Many pupils also highlighted frustrations with the administrative aspects of the process, particularly around recording information electronically. A number of pupils felt that the discussion with their teacher was the most valuable part of the experience and would welcome a more streamlined approach to capturing information.

Pupils also highlighted the importance of consistency across subjects and the value of detailed, personalised feedback that helps them clearly understand how to improve.

What happens next?

The feedback has provided us with a strong foundation for future development. The clear message from pupils is that Learning Conversations are worthwhile and support their understanding of progress, achievement and next steps. Our focus now is on making the process more efficient, reducing unnecessary administration and ensuring every conversation is impactful and meaningful.

We will use the feedback gathered from pupils to review the timing, structure and consistency of Learning Conversations across the school. This will help us retain the aspects pupils valued most, particularly the opportunity to discuss progress with teachers and receive personalised feedback, while addressing concerns about the time required and the recording process.

Following the October break, we will also be inviting parents and carers to share their views through a short survey. As Learning Conversations form an important part of our wider Tracking, Monitoring and Reporting arrangements, we are keen to gather feedback from families about both the Learning Conversation process and our wider reporting systems. The views of parents and carers will be invaluable in helping us evaluate the impact of this year's approach and shape future improvements.

Together, these conversations are helping strengthen the partnership between learners and teachers ensuring every young person understands their progress, recognises their successes and knows their next steps for improvement.