At Somerville Rise Primary School, our teaching and learning model is based on the Gradual Release of Responsibility framework and aligned with the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0 (VTLM 2.0). In simple terms, this means we carefully guide students from learning something new with strong teacher support to confidently applying it on their own.

Our lessons follow a clear and consistent structure to help every child succeed.

1. Launch – Setting the Purpose
   Each lesson begins with a clear explanation of what students are learning and what success looks like. This helps students understand the goal and why it matters.
2. Review – Strengthening Foundations
   We revisit prior learning so students can connect new knowledge to what they already know. Practice and revision help build confidence and long-term understanding.
3. Explicit Teaching – “I Do”
   The teacher clearly explains and models the new skill or concept. We break learning into manageable steps and demonstrate exactly how to approach a task.
4. Guided Practice – “We Do”
   Students practise the new learning with teacher support. This might involve working in small groups or as a class, with feedback and guidance along the way.
5. Peer Practice – “You Do Together”
   Students work with a partner or small group to apply their learning. Collaboration helps deepen understanding and build communication skills.
6. Independent Practice – “You Do Independently”
   Students independently apply what they have learned, showing their understanding and building independence and confidence.
7. Reflection – Looking Back to Move Forward
   Students reflect on what they have learned, what went well, and what they might improve next time. Reflection strengthens metacognition — thinking about their thinking.
8. Ongoing Planning and Improvement
   After each lesson, teachers work together to review student progress and plan next steps. This ensures learning is responsive, targeted and continually improving.

What This Means for Your Child

• Clear learning goals every lesson
• Strong teacher guidance when learning something new
• Supported practice before working independently
• Opportunities to collaborate and build confidence
• Time to reflect and consolidate learning

By gradually releasing responsibility from teacher to student, we ensure every child develops the skills, knowledge and independence they need to thrive — not just in school, but beyond it.