Leading the Way with Research

The Trust is currently leading research into how cognitive science pedagogies - especially retrieval practice can be adapted to benefit children with complex learning difficulties and social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. The project, led by staff at Redwood Park Academy and other Trust schools, aims to redefine educational success for students with diverse needs by focusing on holistic achievement rather than traditional attainment measures.

The research involves teachers and teaching assistants investigating how retrieval practice, known for its positive impact on long-term memory and learning, can be tailored for specialist settings. Staff are also challenging conventional ideas of educational progress, ensuring that assessment and curriculum are truly personalised to each student’s profile and needs.

Dr Kelly Richens, Director of Development & Research, Solent Academies Trust said “We are really proud of our staff who have conducted action research that begins to answer the question of how mainstream pedagogies have to be adapted in our specialist settings. We are so excited that this contribution to the world of education will support mainstream colleagues, as well as those in other specialist settings, to use research-informed practices more effectively.”

Sharon Burt, CEO, Solent Academies Trust, expressed her pride in the staff leading this innovative work:
"The staff at Solent Academies Trust are our most important resource. I am so proud of the individual talents and expertise of all our staff and the impact we can have in providing high quality education. This research not only promises to improve outcomes for students within the Trust but could also inform best practice for special and alternative provision schools nationwide."