The VESPA Handbook: 40 Activities for Student Commitment and Motivation
Student Commitment Motivation: The VESPA Handbook by Steve Oakes and Martin Griffin offers 40 activities for teachers, tutors and parents working with 14–18-year-olds. Activities are designed for 15–20 minutes and can be used one-to-one, with a tutor group or with a whole cohort.
At a glance
- Includes 40 activities organised thematically around the VESPA approach: vision, effort, systems, practice and attitude.
- Each activity is designed to take 15–20 minutes and may be delivered individually, in a tutor group or to a whole cohort.
- The material is written with a pupil audience in mind, while providing advice for educators.
- Intended to support learners aged 14–18 in developing study-related behaviours and preparing for further education or employment.
Reference price: £19.99
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- The stated short activity format offers teachers and tutors options for focused sessions rather than requiring a full lesson.
- Several delivery formats make the activities adaptable to individual support and group settings.
- The five-part VESPA framework gives the collection a clear organising structure.
Technical specifications
7 specifications| Publisher | Crown House Publishing |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 9 May 2024 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 220 pages |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1785837104 |
| Weight listed | 524 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 18.29 x 1.78 x 23.37 cm |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Teachers and tutors seeking structured activities about study habits, motivation and academic behaviours for 14–18-year-olds.
- Parents looking for practical prompts to support young people’s learning routines.
- Educators who want activities usable one-to-one, with tutor groups or across a cohort.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a student textbook, subject-specific revision guide or a resource for learners outside the stated 14–18 age range.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
75% 75% - 4 stars
0% 0% - 3 stars
25% 25% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
0% 0%
Aggregate customer ratings lean positive, with most ratings in the five-star category and some in the three-star category. This small rating sample offers limited guidance about how the activities work in particular classrooms, so consider whether the stated age range and short-session format match your needs.
Frequently asked questions
How many activities are included?
The listing describes 40 activities organised under the VESPA approach.
How long does an activity take?
Each activity is described as taking 15–20 minutes.
Can the activities be used with groups?
The listing says they can be delivered one-to-one, to a tutor group or to a whole cohort.
Who is the book intended for?
It is aimed at teachers, tutors and parents supporting learners aged 14–18.
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