PD-OD is created & curated by James Nottingham
James Nottingham is one of the most sought-after voices in education today.
As the creator of the Learning Pit and author of 12 best-selling books—together with a career spanning 30+ years K-12 teaching—James specialises in bridging the gap between academic research and classroom practice.
His work, frequently cited alongside collaborators like Carol Dweck and John Hattie, focuses on making small adjustments to teaching that lead to significant improvements in student outcomes.
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About James Nottingham
The Learning Pit
Of James Nottingham's extensive body of work, his most recognised concept is undoubtedly the Learning Pit. This model is now used by tens of thousands of teachers to foster supportive learning environments, cultivate a growth mindset and normalise struggle as an essential part of the learning journey.
The model has been widely featured, with articles appearing in publications like the New York Times and on the BBC, as well as in academic work by prominent educational researchers. You can find links to these media and downloadable graphics at LearningPit.org
Learning Pit Website
Books by James Nottingham
James Nottingham has authored twelve books on teaching and learning, many of which are bestsellers.
Teach Brilliantly
James Nottingham's most recent book. The perfect companion for the PD-OD library. (2024)
The Learning Challenge
The most in-depth guide about the world-renowned Learning Pit model. (2017) Also in Chinese, Danish, Dutch, Swedish.
The Learning Pit
A pocket guide to the Learning Pit. Available as a free download for PD-OD subscribers in English & Spanish. (2020)
Challenging Learning
The first time the Learning Pit appeared in a book. Also covers feedback, attitudes, challenge, thinking skills & self-efficacy. (2010) Also in Danish, Norwegian, Swedish.
Challenging Early Learning
Strategies to foster curiosity, resilience and independent thinking in 3-7-year olds. (2018) Also in Danish, Dutch, Swedish.
Challenging Mindset
Provides a nuanced understanding of how growth mindset impacts learning, particularly when students face challenges. (2018) Also in Danish, Swedish.
Encouraging Learning
Practical strategies for parents and teachers to foster confident, thoughtful and independent learners. (2013) Also in Danish, Norwegian, Swedish.
Challenging Learning Through Feedback
Shows how important feedback is to the learning process but only if received and acted upon effectively. (2017) Also in Danish, Norwegian, Swedish.
Challenging Learning Through Dialogue
Transforms research into practical strategies for creating ways in which students engage in meaningful classroom discussions. (2016) Also in Danish, Norwegian, Swedish.
School's Out, Learning's In
Provides parents with practical activities for fostering children's language, curiosity, and problem-solving skills outside of the classroom. (2021)
Learning Challenge Lessons: Primary
A school year's worth of lesson ideas designed to guide primary school students (ages 5-11) through the Learning Pit. (2018)
Learning Challenge Lessons: ELA
Twenty ready-to-use lessons designed to guide students through the Learning Pit when engaging with texts typically studied during ELA lessons. (2019)
Options for Schools
James Nottingham works directly with teachers, leaders, admin, support staff and pre-service teachers.
Keynote Speeches
Engaging, thought-provoking and inspiring keynotes. Any PD-OD topic. 45-90mins. Typical audiences: 100 to 5000
In-School Presentations
Full day, half day or after-school sessions. Refresh your pedagogy with small tweaks that make a big difference to student learning.
Model Lessons
Demonstrations led by James - with your students (any class, any age), showing ways to adjust pedagogy for maximum impact.
Coaching Conversations
For leaders or teachers, focusing on problem-solving & professional growth. Often uses lesson recordings as the basis for reflections.
Presentations for Parents
Helping parents, carers & community members understand their role in building a learning-focused environment at home.
Scholar in Residence
Move beyond recommendations and into active implementation, ensuring improvements are embedded and sustained.
Background and Career
EARLY LIFE: James Nottingham's own educational journey was not smooth; he struggled in school, was expelled twice and left with poor grades. After being told to leave home at 16, he found work on a farm and in a factory, later volunteering in squatter camps in apartheid South Africa. These formative experiences continue to drive his mission to improve education for all students.
TEACHING & THE BBC: His experience as a teaching assistant at a school for deaf children helped James secure a place at university. After graduating with First Class Honours, he taught in primary, high and middle schools. His teaching, including an early form of the Learning Pit, featured in a BBC series in 1999.
SOCIAL REGENERATION PROJECT: From 2000-2006, he led a multi-million-pound, social regeneration project in North East England. This initiative boosted the aspirations and achievement in lower socio-economic areas, and its remarkable success garnered international recognition and numerous awards. Throughout this period, he also continued to teach students aged 3 to 19.
GLOBAL REACH: Driven by a mission to share his innovative approaches, he launched a company in 2006. Employing 30 staff across seven countries, his team supported schools in refining pedagogy. This included the exclusive licence to deliver Visible Learning processes across Scandinavia. He closed this company in 2020 to return to full-time teaching & consulting.
Our Mission: Strengthen Teaching, Strengthen Lives
By 2030, an additional 60 million teachers will be needed to achieve universal basic education (1). Meanwhile, the percentage of teachers leaving the profession within their first 5 years has doubled recently, from fewer than 5% in 2015 to over 10% today (2)
One of the best ways to counter this decline is through professional growth. Trainees who feel they are improving are more likely to qualify; those in the profession are more likely to stay. Growth is inspiring!
This principle inspired James Nottingham & his colleagues to create PD-OD as a contribution to fostering professional growth and helping educators thrive.
Why Engage with James Nottingham
He is a highly regarded and experienced expert in education.
His approach is practical and research-based.
He offers small tweaks that lead to big improvements.
He tailors his support to your specific needs.
He inspires & empowers staff to improve their practice.
His work has a proven impact.
© Learning Pit Ltd, 2025
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