As you go through the journey of primary school applications, youโll likely be visiting a lot of schools ๐ซ. For many parents, it can be challenging to know exactly what to observe ๐, listen for ๐, or ask about โ. As someone with experience as a teacher ๐ฉโ๐ซ, school leader ๐, primary school governor ๐๏ธ, and, most importantly, as a dad ๐จโ๐งโ๐ฆ, I am on a mission to help!
One significant area where schools can vary is in their approach to โbehaviourโ ๐. While all schools aim to create safe, calm and productive learning environmentsโand most parents and children desire the sameโthere are different ways schools strive to achieve this. Each approach comes with its own strengths and potential challenges โ๏ธ. The one that โfeels rightโ to you often reflects your own (perhaps subconscious) educational values ๐.
Broadly speaking, these approaches can be grouped into:
1. Extrinsic, System-Based Approach ๐
This approach emphasises clarity, with clear rules, rewards, and consequences. Think of it like a straightforward rule at home: โNo TV after dinnerโ ๐บ๐ซ. Itโs simple, easy to understand, and consistent. Schools adopting this model often have their rules visibly displayed, and leaders or teachers can quickly explain how they work.
To complement this, an extrinsic reward system is typically used, involving stickers ๐ , public awards ๐ฅ, and behaviour displays (e.g., a sun โ๏ธ-and-cloud โ๏ธ chart where children are moved based on their actions). Such systems aim to provide incentives for positive behaviour and are often highly structured and publicly visible.
2. Intrinsic, Relationship-Based Approach ๐ค
This approach views behaviour as a form of communication ๐ฌ, rooted in deeper causes. Building strong, positive relationships forms the foundation here, with fewer rigid rules and more context-based responses. At home ๐ , this might mean recognising and adapting to a childโs shifting moods and needs. In schools ๐ซ, it could translate to tailored responsesโdifferent rewards and consequences based on individual circumstances, rather than applying a universal โif X, then Yโ rule.
Typically, this approach involves less public display and more private reflection and relationship repair after incidents, encouraging intrinsic motivation for positive behaviour ๐งโโ๏ธ.
Each approach has its merits and drawbacks โ๏ธ, and your preference will likely reflect what you value most in an educational environment. This is why itโs helpful to explore, observe, and ask about a schoolโs behaviour policy during your visitsโit offers valuable insight into the day-to-day functioning of the school ๐ซโจ.
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