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Date
02 July 2025
Link
inclusive.tki.org.nz/guides/developing-an-inclusive-classroom-culture/develop-learner-profiles-with-students

Develop learner profiles with students

Suggestion for implementing the strategy ‘Valuing what each student brings to the classroom’

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What to include in a learner profile

What to include in a learner profile

Discuss with ākonga and their whānau what information will help inform their learning.

  • Important people
  • Cultural connections and experiences
  • Languages spoken
  • Things the student is good at
  • Memorable life experiences
  • How they like to unwind and relax
  • Likes and interests
  • Dislikes and things they avoid
  • How they like to learn and what helps
  • Things that make it hard for them to learn
  • What they do when they need help

Get to know your learner over time

Get to know your learner over time

Learner profiles can help school staff build relationships with ākonga and their whānau, understand their perspectives and design learning to meet student needs. There are many creative ways to build knowledge about your learner.

Creative alternatives to learner profiles:

1. All About Me Interviews

  • One-on-one chats with a teacher or peer using simple, structured questions.
  • Use visuals or yes/no prompts.

Record answers through voice, video, or drawing.

  • "What do you like at school?"
  • "What helps you learn?"

 

2. Video Introductions / Self-Presentations

  • Students record short videos introducing themselves.
  • They can show their strengths, interests, and needs.
  • Great for visual and verbal expression — use prompts or interview formats.

 

3. Photo Collages or Vision Boards

  • Students select photos of people, places, things, or activities they like.
  • Use magazines, printed photos, or digital tools (like Canva or Book Creator).
  • Add labels or short captions if appropriate.

 

4. Learning Choice Baskets

  • Use a basket or box filled with objects that represent learning preferences (e.g., headphones, timer, picture of a friend, fidget, iPad).
  • The student selects what helps them learn best.
  • You can record their choices as a profile.

 

5. Interactive Poster or Wall Display

 Create a classroom wall or board where students can add post-its or pictures under categories:

“I feel calm when…”

“I like learning with…”

“I want to get better at…”

Survey students about preferences

Survey students about preferences

Ask students what supports their learning and what gets in the way.

I personally do a survey at the beginning of every class, every semester ... to get an idea of who is in the classroom to begin with and what they would benefit, or what they want to see in the class, what would work [and not work] for them.

Nancy Searcy

Source: Student profiles - UDL supporting diversity in BC schools (opens in a new tab/window)

Source:
Student profiles - UDL supporting diversity in BC schools

Useful resources

Useful resources

File

Primary school learner profile

An example of a NZ primary school student’s learner profile, developed by the adults around her.

Download DOC (613 KB)

Rachels learner profile NZ high school

Secondary school learner profile

An example of a NZ secondary student’s learner profile.

Download PDF (331 KB)

Next steps

More suggestions for implementing the strategy “Value what each student brings ”:

Return to the guide “Developing an inclusive classroom culture ”

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Guide to Index of the guide: Inclusive classroom culture

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