Cognitive-Affective Learning
Cognitive-Affective Learning: A thriving mind, a connected heart, a grounded spirit
Cognitive–Affective Learning (CAL) is a holistic approach that brings together the Science of Learning, evidence-based teaching practices, emotional intelligence, and culturally responsive pedagogy. It recognises that learning is strengthened when cognitive challenge is balanced with emotional connection and a strong sense of identity and belonging.
Through this approach, learners develop the skills, knowledge, and dispositions needed to engage deeply, think critically, and thrive as confident, capable individuals.
Our commitment:
To support learners to understand and regulate their emotions
To strengthen connection, belonging, and relational trust within learning environments
To design learning that is meaningful, purposeful, and connected to identity and community
To apply high-impact teaching practices that support progress, confidence, and mastery
Together, these elements create the conditions for learning where learners can stand tall, engage fully, and experience success.
Outcomes
Through Cognitive–Affective Learning, learners are supported to:
recognise and manage their emotions
develop empathy and build strong relationships
communicate clearly and respectfully
persist through challenge and uncertainty
make positive, values-based decisions
develop confidence in themselves as learners
At the same time, educators strengthen their ability to create learning environments that are emotionally safe, culturally responsive, and academically rigorous.
Who We Are
Cognitive-Affective Learning is led by:
Mary-Anne Murphy – NZ Lead Practitioner in Emotional Intelligence, Coach & Educator (RocheMartin)
Emalene Cull – Social-Emotional Intelligence Coach & Primary-Trained Educator (RocheMartin)
Together, they bring decades of experience in educational leadership, emotional wellbeing, and culturally responsive facilitation.
Let’s grow the hearts, minds and wairua of our future.
Price on application.
⭐ NEW PODCAST EPISODE OUT NOW FOR EDUCATORS
⭐ NEW PODCAST EPISODE OUT NOW FOR EDUCATORS
⭐ NEW PODCAST EPISODE OUT NOW FOR EDUCATORS ⭐ NEW PODCAST EPISODE OUT NOW FOR EDUCATORS
Are you an educator committed to growing not just what students know — but who they are becoming?
This episode of the Conversations About Learning podcast introduces a compelling pedagogical approach that brings together structured approaches to learning, the sciences of learning, emotional intelligence, and cultural responsiveness — all through the integrated lens of Cognitive-Affective Learning.
Discover how intentionally weaving head and heart creates deeper engagement, relational safety, and powerful learning outcomes for ākonga. Grounded in research and real practice, this episode invites you to explore what’s possible when structure and connection work in harmony.
Tune in today and be inspired to lead learning that grows both capability and character.
