Spaced Retrieval

RETRIEVAL PRACTICE

Retrieval practice is the act of bringing previously learned information back to mind, often with the help of a cue or prompt. Research shows that regularly retrieving knowledge strengthens memory and helps pupils retain their learning over the longer term.

At Crawford Village, we use spaced retrieval to give pupils regular opportunities to revisit and strengthen their learning over time. Rather than simply repeating work, pupils are encouraged to recall and apply knowledge they have previously encountered, helping to make learning more secure and accessible.

We use a range of approaches to support this, including app-based activities, interactive games, quizzes and other engaging retrieval tasks. These provide pupils with opportunities to revisit key knowledge and skills from previous learning in a variety of ways, often at increasing intervals.

By regularly returning to important learning, pupils strengthen their long-term memory and become increasingly confident in recalling and applying what they know. Spaced retrieval is therefore an important part of our approach to helping pupils develop secure, lasting knowledge and skills.

A useful starting point for understanding retrieval practice, interleaving and spacing can be found at Retrieval Practice.