Discipline

Behaviour is good at Taxal and Fernilee Primary School and this is because we have excellent pupil-teacher relationships. Using peer role models we expect our children to be well behaved and honest. This helps to encourage a family feeling within the school. It is not uncommon to see older childen helping and caring for the younger ones and this is encouraged by a ‘Buddy System’ where Year 6 children are paired off to support new children to the school.

Children are encouraged to be polite, behave sensibly and show consideration for others at all atimes. We operate an individual signature card scheme in school. Staff members (both teaching and support staff) may sign a child’s card to reward good work, behaviour etc. When a card is full of signatures it is exchanged for a certificate, which is presented in our weekly celebration assembly. Each teacher nominates two pupils each week for a special commendation, one based on academic achievement and one based on social behaviour. Also each class has a ‘star of the week', who has special responsibilities in the class. For example, they greet visitors into the classroom and explain what they are learning in the class today.

We have a graded response to dealing with behaviour. On the rare occasions when children do not follow our rules, a quiet word or the withdrawal of privilege usually works. If the behaviour persists then parents will be asked to help their children deal with their behaviour.

Incidents of bullying are rare but do happen, as in all schools. When these incidents do occur they are dealt with immediately and with sensitivity. We have an anti-bullying leaflet and copies are available from the school. Bullying behaviour is always dealt with and taken seriously.