Guernsey Press

Schools to reward pupils’ good behaviour

A NEW behaviour policy for schools has been launched by Education.

Published
Education president Deputy Matt Fallaize. (Picture by Steve Sarre, 23818867)

It will provide schools with additional guidance and support in their efforts to ensure students’ behaviour is of the highest standard.

‘Good behaviour in schools is fundamental to creating an environment of excellence and a culture of aspiration,’ said committee president Deputy Matt Fallaize.

‘Our schools work hard to promote good behaviour. This policy will support them further by setting out clearer expectations of the standards expected of students.’

He said good behaviour enables all members of the school community to focus on learning in an atmosphere where they respect one another.

‘Poor behaviour can have a highly detrimental effect on both students’ learning and wellbeing.’

Schools will be required to outline how they will praise and reward students for good behaviour and positive contributions to the school as well as identify the school rules and any consequences for poor behaviour.

Teachers, teaching assistants and all other staff with responsibility for students should be empowered by the behaviour policy to manage those whose behaviour falls short of acceptable standards.

Staff will act in accordance with the policy to ensure a consistent approach.

In order to maintain a safe and effective learning environment, those staff with responsibility for students are able to apply any reasonable consequences in response to poor behaviour that accord with the school’s behaviour policy.

Director of education Andrew Warren said: ‘We understand how important it is for children to feel safe and secure in school and our policy is designed to recognise the many students who contribute positively to school life each and every day, whilst empowering school leaders to insist upon and maintain the highest of standards in the Bailiwick schools.’

The new policy includes and expects:

. all students to behave well and to show courtesy towards teachers and other staff and towards each other.

. parents to encourage their children to behave well and to support the school to manage student behaviour.

. all staff in schools to model the highest standards of behaviour and professionalism in the workplace.

. Head teachers to help create a culture of good behaviour in school by requiring staff to manage student behaviour consistently across the school and in varying situations.