School behaviour policy

Teaching appropriate behaviour

A behaviour policy sets out the expectations which follow from being a member of the school community. Social and interpersonal behaviours can be taught like other learned behaviours such as learning to read, to write, to spell, etc.

Staff need to agree about what expectations are being set for pupils. Pupils need to be clear about these expectations, otherwise some pupils will be unsure about what behaviour is appropriate, and what is not. These fundamental expectations should apply throughout the school community.

Review questions: Teaching appropriate behaviours

Does your policy define what is meant by good behaviour?

Are the expectations:	Yes	No	Not sure
1 clearly stated?
2 expressed positively?
3 few in number (approx.5)
4 acceptable to all as essential?
5 general enough to apply in all situations
6 displayed clearly and boldly?
7 effectively communicated to pupils, parents and staff?
8 based on consultations with staff, parents, and pupils?

The behaviour policy shares the fundamental characteristics of all learning policies. It is useful to consider how it relates to the Personal and Social education programme. Pupils who struggle (for whatever reason) to learn appropriate emotional and social behaviours will benefit from a well-differentiated approach.

Review questions: The personal and social educational programme

	Yes	No	Not sure
1 Does the PSE programme address emotional and interpersonal issues? (eg the importance of the awareness of feelings and the ability to express these appropriately)
2 Is the PSE curriculum well differentiated?