An evaluation of aspects of the design and implementation of a new behaviour management policy in school

Thesis

A legacy behaviour management (BM) policy in a mixed private boarding school was examined to determine any improvements which could be introduced based on contemporary behaviour management theories. The policy was observed to contain some passing remarks on the use of positive behavioural techniques but improvements were identified from literature on Positive Behaviour Support and Restorative Justice Practices. It was also recognised that behaviour is learned so literature on reflection was consulted.

Three interventions were introduced which aimed to make behaviour management less retributive and provide more opportunities for student reflection on behaviour to occur. Two interventions were introduced within a single department to enable best practice to be determined whilst the third intervention was implemented on a whole-school basis.

Perceptions were mixed regarding the effectiveness of the interventions. Some students and staff benefited and there were many examples of successful engagement with the intervention. Others found the interventions ineffective or were ineffective in implementing them. Data showed that the intervention term had the lowest rate of sanctions of any term for the past three years. Limitations and areas for future research are discussed.

Authors: Kelland, D

• Type of award: MSc taught course
• Level of award: Masters
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: MLT 2020; MLT
• Subjects: Education