Professional learning spotlight: What is a culture of thinking?

This approach aligns beautifully with the biblical view of work and learning. In Every Good Endeavor, Tim Keller reminds us that all work, including the work of learning, is a way to serve God and contribute to His world. When students are invited to think critically, ask questions, and explore ideas, they are participating in the kind of meaningful, God-honouring work that Keller describes. Learning becomes more than a task, it forms a way to respond to and reflect the image of our Creator, who is Himself a thinker, designer, and problem-solver.

Educational consultant Mr Simon Brooks, who has been working closely with our staff, describes Cultures of Thinking in this way:

"At the heart of teaching is a shared commitment to shaping young minds, not just by imparting knowledge, but by nurturing dispositions that will serve students well throughout their lives. These are not just dispositions for success in school; they are ways of engaging with the world that will support students for a lifetime."

This year, teachers from both our Junior and Secondary Schools have been engaging in deep professional learning, asking powerful questions like:

• How might I help my learners become curious, discerning, and servant-hearted people?
• How might I create a culture of learning rather than work?
• How might I boost students' self-belief to make connections, share insights, and ask questions?

These questions are helping us shape classrooms where thinking is visible, valued, and actively encouraged.

Mrs Cara O'Neill, a member of our Inquiry-Action Team, shared how this journey has influenced her classroom:

"This professional learning has really challenged me to rethink how I structure my lessons. I've started to shift from simply delivering content to designing learning experiences that invite students to think more deeply. Whether it's through open-ended questions or giving students time to reflect and share, I've seen a noticeable difference in how they engage with the material and with each other."

Ms Elise Semenchuk also reflected on the impact of this journey:

"Being part of this professional learning has helped me see how small changes can make a big difference. I've started using thinking routines that give students time to pause, reflect, and share their ideas. It's been so rewarding to see students grow in confidence and take ownership of their learning."

We’re excited to continue this journey during our upcoming July Professional Learning Week, where Simon Brooks will return to lead further training with our staff.

At Calderwood, we are committed to nurturing students who think well, live wisely, and love deeply. By fostering a culture of thinking, we are not only preparing students for academic success, we are equipping them to live out their faith thoughtfully and purposefully in every area of life.

As Keller writes, "Everyone will be forgotten, nothing we do will make any difference, and all good endeavours, even the best, will come to naught… unless there is God." In light of this, we pursue thinking not for its own sake, but as a way to honour God with our minds and prepare students to serve His purposes in the world.

Mr Ross Graham