Secondary school teachers please give your top tips for discipline!

[Rory786]

Just that really, how do you control noise levels, deal with back chat, violence or non compliance?

Ive applied to be a TA in a secondary school.

Thank you!

That’s a question you’ll be asked at interview.

Foxyloxy1plus1 yes! Im ok with the safe guarding questions but I really want to know how some teachers deal with the discipline issues.

"Behaviour management techniques" is probably one of the better terms to Google - it brings up articles like these www.tes.com/news/five-ps-positive-behaviour

I used to be in a job where much of my time was spent visiting schools and working with older secondary pupils. Very different, as I only had to hold their attention (and respect) for an hour, but one of the techniques I used to use if I was presenting and kids were whispering or on their phones was to stop mid sentence, wait for them to look up at me (never took more than a few seconds, as they rapidly realised that there was silence and someone staring at them) then continue with my sentence. Completely non confrontational and surprisingly effective.

PS in an interview I would start my answer to any such question with a line about following the school's behaviour policy, before going into a more detailed answer about techniques you might use.

AvocadosBeforeMortgages That is brilliant.

I'm a big believer in diffusing tense situations and building a relationship so that hopefully things don't get too hairy!

However if a student is openly defiant wwyd?
Or if they refuse to stay after the lesson to speak with you?

Read the school you are applying to’s discipline policy. I sit on interview panels for teachers and TAs, this is a question that comes up. The better candidates usually have read the policies, mention things contained within it and then mention techniques they use. Good luck.

I would say that you would make sure you were aware of students with behaviour plans/additional needs/learning difficulties. A lot can be achieved with ‘difficult’ pupils of you thoroughly understand their issues.
I also think different children respond to different methods. Some are better dealt with privately and quietly, others respond to a bollocking. I work in a school though am non-teaching staff. It really helps me to know what I am dealing with.

Definitely follow the school’s behaviour plan.

Always give clear instructions, a warning and follow through.

WattdeEll thank you so much

SunflowerSuit great tips thank you.

I'm in awe of those teachers who emanate respect!

It's kind of a fake it til you make it thing 2bh. I'm known as a scary teacher but hopefully a nice one too. I would say that it's much easier to become softer than it is to become harder. Dont try and win their affection. Clear warnings. Dont be afraid to use the schools hierarchy- e.g. contacting HOY etc. I always dress very smartly too.
Good luck!

Mississippilessly I love the advice of fake it til you make it. Its so true. Yes will dress smart- that always boosts my confidence.

Thank you for the great tips!