Questions on Behaviour : Building Classroom Confidence as an Early Career Teacher

With contributions from a panel of behaviour experts, this book explores the reasons behind behaviour and offers actionable advice for handling disruptions with confidence. It covers a range of topics from organisation and conflict resolution to inclusive learning environments and is essential reading for ECTs.

What do I do when children don’t seem to follow the rules? How can I create a classroom environment that promotes positive behaviour? How do I handle conflicts between students in a way that promotes inclusion?Every teacher faces moments of uncertainty when managing behaviour in the classroom, and for Early Career Teachers (ECT) these challenges can feel especially daunting. Drawing on insights from a diverse panel of behaviour experts, this dip-in-and-out guide navigates these complexities with confidence, compassion, and curiosity, offering practical strategies rooted in real-life classroom experiences. Each chapter provides actionable advice on topics ranging from classroom organisation and conflict resolution to handling individual and group behaviours. The guide goes beyond surface-level solutions, encouraging you to consider the ‘why’ behind behaviour while demystifying key concepts like ‘warm/strict’ approaches and trauma-informed practices. Contributors bring a wealth of expertise and lived experiences, and while perspectives may sometimes challenge your thinking, they collectively shape a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn. Case studies and reflections from the editor further invite you to deepen your understanding of the roots of behaviour and to strengthen your classroom practice. Whether you’re learning to establish routines, build connections, or navigate moments of disruption, Questions on Behaviour equips you with the tools to create a calm and inclusive learning environment. It will support you at every step of your teaching journey and is essential reading for ECTs, as well as a valuable staffroom resource for all educational settings.