Retrieval Practice

What is Retrieval Practice?

Retrieval Practice is a highly effective teaching and learning strategy that helps pupils remember what they have learned and retain knowledge over time.

Rather than simply re-reading notes, pupils actively bring information to mind. This strengthens memory, improves understanding and supports long-term learning.

Retrieval Practice is the SPX Learning and Teaching Focus across all curriculum areas and Key Stages from 2026 to 2028.

Why We Use Retrieval Practice

At St Pius X College, we want pupils to develop deep, secure and lasting knowledge, not simply learn content for a test!

By regularly revisiting and recalling prior learning, pupils:

strengthen their memory
improve confidence in their understanding
make stronger links between topics
retain knowledge for longer
achieve greater success across the curriculum

Retrieval Practice and Thinking Skills

Retrieval Practice supports all five Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities (TSPCs) within the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

Regular retrieval activities help pupils to:

Manage Information by recalling and organising knowledge effectively
Develop the knowledge needed for Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Apply learning in new and creative ways through Creative Thinking
Strengthen Working with Others through discussion and collaborative learning
Improve Self-Management by reflecting on their progress and identifying next steps.

As a whole-school approach, Retrieval Practice not only improves retention and attainment but also helps pupils become more independent, effective and resilient learners.

Staff Training and Research

To support the implementation of Retrieval Practice, all staff received professional development from Bradley Busch, Chief Psychological Officer at InnerDrive, during Teacher Development Days in August 2026.

Staff have also drawn on the work of Kate Jones, a leading educator and author whose research has helped make cognitive science accessible and practical for classroom teaching.

This professional learning has enabled us to develop consistent, evidence-informed retrieval strategies that help pupils learn more, remember more and achieve more whilst experiencing less stress come examination time.