Ofsted's pearls of wisdom- a bit late in the day but hey, they've had lots to think about over the years. I don't generally rate Ofsted's opinions. I've seen too much bad behaviour in schools with nothing much being done about it but then Ofsted visit the school and say everything is just great. But, oh no it's not...
Children not being able to read confidently, not able do the work because it's not differentiated to suit their ability level - if they could read this wouldn't be a problem ... discipline problems and bad behaviour not being addressed, head teachers insisting on following the latest government initiative without thinking of the impact on staff and children (for it to be dropped a few months later). I could go on but I'll spare you my ranting for now...
In a recent article it has been reported that Ofsted have said a primary school should have a blitz on swearing in order to improve behaviour- why does any school need to be told that!? For heaven's sake this is a primary school - little children... Anyway, Ofsted added to their innovative idea by saying that strict discipline is essential - better late than never, I suppose.
But, hey, there's aproblem... Saying we need strict discipline is fine but schools, adults, and society on the whole have long ago lost their edge when it comes to making sure children are disciplined. They've actually forgotten how to do it. It's seen as wrong, harsh and damaging to children's development.
An absolute load of dangerous rubbish ... I have developed a system of behaviour management for children that is strict - but the children are confident, sociable and happy. And do you know what? They love coming to my classes. They know where they are - a fair, confident adult is in charge who won't allow them to behave badly or in a way that children would often like to but would damage them. Instinctively, children know adults should be in control. Someone has to be in control and if the adults won't take responsibility children soon take over! And that's leading many children to hell in a handcart - tragic.
A boy in my class who was on the point of being removed permanently from mainstream school less than a year ago is ready to go back to school. His behaviour was so out of control then that school couldn't cope with his violence and aggression. I have a problem though - he doesn't want to go. He wants to stay where the expectations of work and behaviour are so high. His mum is so proud of him and his improved behaviour - she hardly recognises him! He's a great kid.
there is an additional problem though. Many adults recognise that discipline needs to improve but they have lost the knowledge and skills to do the job that needs to be done. Many think it's about yelling and shouting. No it's not - it's about using effective behaviour management strategies consistently and confidently.
Any adult, teacher or parent, can learn to discipline children effectively and quite simply by using easy to follow behaviour management techniques consistently. Behaviour Bible shows you how to have well mannered, happy and hard working children who accept that adults are in charge.
More Information:
Liz Marsden's highly recommended book
Behaviour Bible is full of invaluable information to help you confidently manage children's behaviour in school. Liz is highly skilled in managing children's extremely
challenging behaviour and uses her skills extensive in the classroom and also trains teachers, students and parents. Read about her extensive classroom experiences.
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