VESPA

VESPA is an educational framework that helps students develop the behaviours and habits linked to high academic performance. It focuses on five key areas — Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice and Attitude — providing a structured way for learners to understand how to study effectively and manage their learning. It is a framework designed to help develop the behaviours and habits that high-performing learners consistently show.

Unlike traditional academic support that focuses solely on subject knowledge, VESPA addresses the underlying behaviours and mindsets that enable students to learn effectively. Our evidence-based approach has been proven to close achievement gaps and transform educational outcomes across diverse settings.

- Steve Oaks and Martin Griffin

VESPA focuses on the rationale that academic outcomes aren’t determined only by intelligence or prior grades, they’re shaped by:

Motivation and long‑term goals (Vision)
Consistency and work ethic (Effort)
Organisation and planning (Systems)
Effective study strategies (Practice)
Mindset and resilience (Attitude)

VESPA focuses directly on these factors, which research shows have a stronger impact on achievement than raw ability alone.

VESPA is embedded throughout the Personal Development programme to help students develop the habits and behaviours that underpin academic success. VESPA themes are covered during PD sessions, using short activities, reflections and discussions to strengthen their vision, organisation, study strategies and mindset.

All students will receive VESPA mentoring as part of their Sixth Form experience, empowering them to develop the habits and behaviours needed for academic and personal success. This mentoring is tailored to individual needs, offering targeted guidance and support as students progress through their courses and work towards their final examinations. Through regular mentoring sessions, students are supported to reflect on their goals, identify barriers, and build strategies to improve motivation, organisation, and resilience. This personalised support fosters independence and self-awareness, equipping students with the tools to thrive in exams, and in their future studies. VESPA mentoring also strengthens the relationship between staff and students, creating a culture of high expectations and continuous growth.

By embedding these principles, we ensure that students are prepared to navigate the challenges of further education and future careers.