Knowledge Organisers

At Irlam and Cadishead Academy, we believe that effective revision is the cornerstone of academic success. Research demonstrates that strategies such as active recall and spaced practice significantly enhance long-term memory and understanding (Dunlosky et al., 2013). By embedding structured revision habits into daily learning, we empower students to take ownership of their studies, build resilience, and reduce exam anxiety (Bjork & Bjork, 1992; Brown, Roediger & McDaniel, 2014). 

Knowledge Organisers: A Tool for Success 

A key part of our approach is the use of knowledge organisers—carefully curated resources that provide students with high-value, subject-specific knowledge. These are: 

• Evaluated and refined by curriculum leaders every half term to ensure they focus on the most essential content. 
• Provided at the start of each term, equipping students with bespoke, highly focused core knowledge for effective revision. 
• More than just content—they include clear guidance on how to revise, with research-backed strategies that are reinforced in lessons. 

Form-Time Revision: Embedding Good Habits 

• Every two weeks, students take part in structured self-quizzing sessions using their knowledge organisers. With guidance from their form tutors, they: 
• Practise retrieval-based learning techniques. 
• Receive modelling, support, and feedback to refine their revision strategies. 
• Develop the independent study skills essential for exam success. 

Our structured approach is transforming how pupils revise, ensuring they use methods that lead to real academic success. 

• Greater clarity on revision – Pupils now have a much clearer understanding of what to revise and how to revise, thanks to the increased presence and explicit teaching of knowledge organisers every fortnight. 
• A major shift towards effective revision techniques – Last year, the most popular revision method among pupils was copying notes (15%), despite research showing this is an ineffective strategy. This year, the most popular methods are practice questions (18%) and flashcards (15%)—both of which are backed by research as highly effective techniques. 
• Increased revision commitment – The number of pupils revising for at least an hour every day has more than doubled, rising from 6% last year to 15% this year. 
• These improvements highlight the impact of our interventions in fostering independent, confident, and effective learners. By continually reinforcing best-practice revision techniques, we are ensuring our pupils are equipped with the skills they need for academic success.