Annual report special edition: Ambitious, capable learners - Developing Independent thinking within the Curriculum for Wales

In 'Creating Cultures of Thinking,' Ron Ritchhart argues that the key to transforming schools lies in creating cultures that value and promote deep thinking. He identifies eight essential cultural forces—expectations, language, time, modeling, opportunities, routines, interactions, and environment—that work synergistically to foster a vibrant culture of thinking. The book provides practical strategies, case studies, and self-assessments to help educators create dynamic learning communities where students engage deeply with content, question assumptions, and develop a mindset of continuous inquiry. Ritchhart emphasizes the importance of a learner-centered approach, where teachers act as facilitators and guides, and students are seen as active participants in their education. The book underscores the transformative potential of such environments, leading to enhanced academic performance, critical life skills, and a sense of community and collaboration.

Kath Murdoch's Power of Inquiry presents a clear, practical framework for designing and implementing inquiry-based learning in classrooms. The book outlines stages of inquiry, tools for provoking student curiosity, and approaches to scaffold student-led investigations while maintaining curriculum rigour. Murdoch draws on classroom examples and reflective questions to help teachers plan meaningful, connected inquiries that build deep understanding. The text emphasizes student agency, purposeful provocations, and varied ways to present learning, making it accessible for both primary and secondary contexts. Educators use it to shift practice toward more student-centered, inquiry-rich curricula that promote independent thinking.