It's more enjoyable. It makes it sort of stick in your head more, but it sticks in your head in a fun way Year 6 pupil 

LearnPhysical interactive is the latest programme based on our groundbreaking research into embodied learning and multisensory teaching methods. The programme has benefited from generous funding over the past two years from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, which has allowed us to develop teaching and professional development packages for schools and teachers.  

Essentially LearnPhysical is a multi-stranded teaching method which can be integrated into normal lesson planning and delivery. It is based on the multisensory nature of movement, and on neuroscientific research into embodied meaning-making. In LearnPhyical interactive the approach is complemented by the use of interactive whiteboard and handheld digital technology.

The approach is easy to understand, can be applied to any subject area and, although movement is an intrinsic element, it is centred on language - on key words and concepts. Through physicalising key ideas, pupils develop their understanding, and our research shows convincingly that this 'embodied meaning-making' is engaging, enjoyable and effective. 

The teacher gave us ideas and then we got started and then the ideas just flew Year 4 pupil

Normally if we did science in the classroom we'd be tired and a bit bored, and this has really got us working and it's really fun Year 6 pupil   

Teachers too are amazed by the degree of engagement and motivation this approach brings, and by the outcomes, especially in literacy.

When we came back to the writing [the children] were far more able and far more enthusiastic because they have a bank of knowledge from the sessions and they want to show you on paper, 'I can still remember this, I can still do it'  Year 2 teacher  

In the 2009-2010 academic year the programme:

  • worked with three partnership schools to plan and deliver lessons in a range of subject areas using interactive whiteboards and Sony PSPs
  • trained six Primary teachers in the LearnPhysical interactive approach
  • worked with a researcher from the Open University to evaluate the teaching and learning methodologies being developed.  

To date in the 2010-11 academic year we have:

  • presented our findings at a dissemination event at The Place, attended by head teachers, teachers and lecturers as well as by dance educators and other interested colleagues
  • worked with seven partner Primary schools in Greenwich, providing CPD for class teachers as well as running whole-school INSET.

We would particularly like to thank the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation for their generous grant to help us research and develop LearnPhysical interactive as a new learning and teaching initiative and also the John Lyon’s Charity for their continued support.

For further information please contact: 
Peter Laycock (Project Officer, Creative Teaching and Learning)
T: 020 7121 1036 E: