Growing Positive Attitudes and Learning Dispositions

At St Pius X, we know that a child’s attitude to learning is just as important as the skills and knowledge they develop. The way children approach their learning – their mindset, persistence, curiosity, and willingness to take on challenges – are all part of what we call learning dispositions.

These dispositions include qualities such as:

• Resilience – Bouncing back after mistakes or challenges.
• Curiosity – Asking questions and seeking to understand.
• Collaboration – Working positively with others.
• Perseverance – Sticking with a task even when it gets tricky.
• Self-reflection – Thinking about how to improve.
  
  

Why do they matter?

Students with strong learning dispositions are better able to manage setbacks, problem-solve, and stay motivated. These skills set them up for success in all areas of life – not just in the classroom.

How teachers are building these at school:

• Designing learning tasks that encourage problem-solving and creative thinking.
• Allowing students to make mistakes and find solutions themselves before stepping in.
• Providing opportunities for students to work in pairs and groups to build collaboration skills.
• Using feedback to guide students towards self-reflection and improvement.
• Encouraging students to “have a go” and learn from setbacks.
• Celebrating persistence and effort as much as achievement.
  
  

How parents can help at home:

• Praise effort over results – focus on how hard they tried and the strategies they used.
• Normalise mistakes – share times you’ve learned from getting something wrong.
• Encourage curiosity – explore their questions together and model being a learner yourself.
• Let them problem-solve – allow space for them to work through challenges before offering the answer.
• Celebrate persistence – notice when they stick with something difficult.
• Promote independence – let them take responsibility for small tasks and decisions.
  
  

By working together, home and school can help children develop the positive attitudes and learning dispositions they need to thrive as life long learners.

Christine Nunes

Assistant Principal