Behavioural Management in Secondary Schools
Classroom Management for Supply Teachers in Secondary Schools
Managing behaviour as a supply teacher in secondary schools can be challenging. Without the established rapport that regular teachers build with their students, maintaining control of the classroom and fostering a productive learning environment requires specific strategies. However, by applying proven classroom management techniques and adapting quickly to new environments, supply teachers can succeed in managing behaviour effectively.
1. Set Clear Expectations from the Start
When you first step into a new classroom as a supply teacher, it's essential to set clear expectations for behaviour. Even though you’re only there temporarily, students need to know that they are still expected to follow the same rules and routines as they would with their regular teacher.
Tip: Begin each lesson by clearly stating your behavioural expectations. Use a calm, assertive tone and ensure that students understand you will follow through on these rules.
2. Establish Authority Early
Secondary students may try to test the limits with a supply teacher, assuming that because you’re unfamiliar, you may be more lenient. It’s crucial to establish authority early on to avoid behaviour spiralling out of control.
Tip: Maintain a confident presence from the moment you enter the classroom. Be consistent in your approach to discipline, addressing disruptions quickly and fairly to prevent further issues.
3. Learn and Use Students’ Names
One of the most effective ways to manage a class is by personalising your interactions with students. Learning and using students' names can help build respect and reduce behavioural issues, even in the short time you’re with them.
Tip: Write students' names down as they introduce themselves, or check the seating plan if available. Calling students by their names can create a more personal connection and encourage better behaviour.
4. Be Prepared and Organised
Disorganisation can quickly lead to disruption. As a supply teacher, it’s vital to come into the classroom well-prepared with clear instructions and activities to keep students engaged.
Tip: Review the lesson plans provided by the regular teacher beforehand. If these are not available, have a set of generic activities or questions that can be adapted to the subject you're covering. This reduces downtime, during which behavioural issues may arise.
5. Engage Students with Interactive Lessons
One of the key strategies for managing behaviour is to keep students engaged. The more interested they are in the lesson, the less likely they are to become disruptive.
Tip: Where possible, incorporate interactive elements into the lesson, such as group work, discussions, or problem-solving activities. Secondary students tend to respond well to active learning approaches that break up the monotony of lecture-style teaching.
6. Remain Calm and Consistent
Supply teaching often comes with unexpected challenges, but maintaining a calm and consistent approach to behaviour management is essential. Students are quick to pick up on frustration, and it can escalate poor behaviour.
Tip: Stay calm, even when faced with challenging behaviour. Address each situation consistently by following the school’s behaviour policy. This not only helps you maintain control but also shows students that you are fair and approachable.
7. Build Positive Relationships Quickly
Although you may only be in the classroom temporarily, building positive, respectful relationships with students is still important. Students are more likely to behave well if they feel respected and understood by the teacher.
Tip: Show interest in the students and listen to them. Be approachable, but firm, and avoid confrontation where possible. Praise good behaviour to reinforce positive actions and help create a more harmonious classroom atmosphere.
8. Use School Support Systems
As a supply teacher, you should familiarise yourself with the school’s support systems for managing behaviour. Knowing where to seek assistance, or when to escalate an issue, is key to maintaining control.
Tip: Upon arrival, make sure you are briefed on the school's behaviour management policies, including the role of senior staff in supporting teachers with challenging students. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when necessary.
9. Implement Routine and Structure
Students thrive in structured environments where they know what is expected of them. As a supply teacher, you can help maintain this by following established routines or creating your own temporary structure.
Tip: Begin each lesson with a clear outline of what will happen. Stick to a structured plan that includes time for instruction, practice, and review, ensuring students remain focused throughout.
10. Reflect and Adapt for Future Lessons
Every class and school environment is different, and as a supply teacher, it’s important to be adaptable. Reflecting on what worked well in one classroom can help you adjust your approach for future assignments.
Tip: After each lesson, take time to reflect on the behaviour management strategies that were effective and areas where improvement is needed. This ongoing reflection will help you become a more effective supply teacher over time.
Conclusion
Managing behaviour as a supply teacher in secondary schools can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it is possible to create a positive and productive classroom environment. By setting clear expectations, building rapport quickly, and staying organised and calm, supply teachers can navigate the difficulties of unfamiliar classrooms with confidence.
What are your go-to classroom management strategies as a supply teacher?
