The Learning Pit at Lilydale Primary School

At Lilydale Primary School, we teach students that The Learning Pit is a good place to be.

The Learning Pit describes what it feels like when children are learning something new. At first, learning can feel confusing or tricky. Students might feel stuck, unsure or even a little frustrated. We explain that this feeling is normal and it actually means their brain is learning.

Rather than avoiding challenge, we encourage students to “step into the pit”, use strategies, ask questions and keep trying. With support from their teacher and classmates, they climb out the other side with new understanding and confidence.

This approach connects with the Victorian Learning and Teaching Model 2.0, which highlights the importance of:

Clear learning goals

Teachers giving helpful feedback

Students being active participants in their learning

Providing the right level of challenge so learning is meaningful

Every classroom displays the Learning Pit graphic, and staff use the same language across the school so students clearly understand that challenge is part of learning.

We have copies of the Learning Pit graphic available in the office for families. Using the same language at home can help your child talk about where they are in their learning journey. If they say something feels hard, you might ask, “Are you in the Learning Pit?” and encourage them to think about the strategies they can use to keep going.

Together, we can help children see that persistence, effort and resilience lead to success.