Paul Dix

Sending a poorly behaved child out of class to be "chewed out" by a non-relational deputy head might feel like the right thing to do in the moment, but behaviour support is counter-intuitive. The emotional pull to seek an instant consequence higher up the chain is real, but doing so actually works against what you are trying to achieve. Of course we want the boss to help. Agreeing what that help will look like is so important.

There are some incredible teachers, support professionals and leaders whose schools/settings are inclusive, the boundaries are clear and kindness never means a lack of ambition. In these environments training and development in all areas of additional needs falls on rich foundations. Inclusion In settings where there is more fear, more focus on compliance than connection and where inclusivity is conditional, things are different. SEND training feels at odds with the values. No excuses, super...

School behaviour policies tend to run in straight lines. Many are travelators to fixed-term exclusions with written warnings, formal meetings, written contracts, and sworn promises made in blood (well, red pen). A series of red lines and serious threats designed to crush undesirable behaviours. Of course, these exclusionary systems that demand the child changes immediately are reflected in classroom practice. After all if your leaders are excluding children for minor infringements why...