Steve Oakes, Head of Sixth Form at BSAK in Abu Dhabi, on how VESPA mindset – offers a holistic way to motivate students and foster personal growth
In today’s fast-changing world of education, success is no longer confined to traditional teaching methods.
The VESPA mindset – Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice, and Attitude – offers a holistic way to motivate students and foster personal growth.
By focusing on these five elements, VESPA helps students take charge of their learning and excel academically.
With research-backed strategies used by schools worldwide, it supports students in handling academic pressures, helping them reach their full potential.
So, what are the five VESPA pillars, and how can they benefit your child?
1. Vision
‘Vision’ means goal-setting and long-term aspirations. It’s not merely about academic targets; it’s aligning these goals with broader personal and professional ambitions. A clear vision keeps you focused and motivated, particularly during challenging times. By encouraging students to conceptualise their studies in the context of their future, the VESPA framework fosters engagement and resilience.
2. Effort
‘Effort’ highlights a sustained work ethic for academic achievement. In the VESPA model, effort is seen as a continuous journey rather than sporadic activity. Promoting a mindset that views effort as the primary driver of success helps students understand perseverance. This shift encourages them to embrace challenges, reinforcing a growth mindset rather than a fixed intelligence paradigm.
3. Systems
‘Systems’ focuses on organisation and time-management skills. Efficient systems help students structure their time, prioritise tasks and manage resources, reducing cognitive load and enhancing focus. Strategies such as timetabling, organising notes, and regular review sessions enable students to take control of their academic responsibilities, leading to improved performance.
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4. Practice
‘Practice’ is the deliberate and focused repetition to master skills. Research shows that targeted practice, especially in areas of difficulty, is crucial for cognitive improvement. VESPA encourages students to engage in challenging practice sessions, fostering ongoing learning and development.
5. Attitude
‘Attitude’ refers to the beliefs and mindsets that shape behaviour. Drawing from the psychology of Carol Dweck’s research, the VESPA framework stresses the significance of a growth mindset. VESPA inspires students to view challenges as growth opportunities, cultivating resilience and optimism – essential for long-term success.
The tools to succeed
The VESPA mindset framework offers a comprehensive approach to academic success by integrating cognitive and non-cognitive skills.
By adopting VESPA, schools can empower students to take ownership of their learning, enabling them to confidently tackle challenges and succeed academically and beyond.
What do students say?
Pupils at The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) in Abu Dhabi discuss managing academic challenges and staying motivated.
“The problem isn’t that low-effort students can’t work harder; they might just not know how. VESPA gives them a strategy to overcome obstacles.” Milly, Year 12
“As courses get tougher and workloads increase, students who see willpower as limited tend to struggle and procrastinate. VESPA encourages action to counter this.” Sofia, Year 13
“Many of us wait for those panicked, cold-sweat moments to prioritise tasks. By focusing on vision, you feel motivated to take steps sooner.” Ben, Year 13
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