Teacher or Friend?
We can all probably remember teachers who were distant
figures, staying completely in the role of 'teacher', and also those who were eager to be 'friends', but lacked
authority. We examine the importance of both roles and how they support eachother; how to develop a strong human relationship
while at the same time exercising a clear authority as 'teacher'. Both aspects of the relationship are emphasised
throughout the programme.
Problem Behaviour
We look at a clear definition of the term 'behaviour' as the basis on which to understand what
we are dealing with, and examine our individual understanding of 'acceptable' and 'unacceptable' behaviour.
When behaviour is a 'problem' we clarify whose problem it is, the teacher's or the child's; and how this
understanding enables us to use the most effective skills to challenge it.
Children's Feelings
Children bring problems with them into the classroom,
and experience frustrations and worries at school which can lead to strong feelings that interfere with their learning. We
look at conventional methods of handling children's feelings which are ineffective, or even make things worse, and then
examine simple alternative approaches which help children to manage their feelings, without indulging them.
The Teacher's Authority
We examine the different meanings of the word 'authority'
and define the kind of authority a teacher has in the classroom, clarifying the effectiveness of this compared
to the extremes of an authoritarian approach on the one hand and a lack of authority on the other. Within this framework,
we look at typical language, and more effective ways of communicating from a place of legitimate authority. We practice language
skills covering the different situations a teacher may face, including managing day-to-day routines, classroom discipline,
and challenging behaviour.
Creating Your Classroom Culture
Creating the 'culture'
of the class is the teacher's job, but we also want to get the children on board in taking their share of the responsibility.
We examine the most effective ways of fostering a sense of community , and sharing values such as friendliness, respect,
politeness and safety.
