The West Lothian District Newletter for March 2005 can be viewed by click here.

Pupil Behaviour? It’s getting worse

Pupil behaviour is getting worse according to the results of the joint union survey conducted last April. Last session, a total 545 lessons were surveyed. Of these 346 (63%) were considered as presenting no or no significant behaviour issues. In the latest behaviour survey the comparable figures were a total of 706 lessons of which only 397 (56%) were considered as presenting no behavioural issues.

A noticeable and welcome feature of this year’s survey was the participation of a number of senior managers. It is clear from these responses that dealing with pupil misbehaviour is substantially affecting the ability of senior staff to manage schools effectively.

As with the previous session’s survey, the major issues highlighted were not violent or extreme behaviour but more minor but very stressful issues such as repeated answering back, questioning teachers’ instructions, swearing and other abusive language.

Many revealing comments were made by teachers. However, one response in particular may be used to sum up the problem …

S1: Behaviour good. Worked with enthusiasm. Well motivated. No behaviour issues Several wished to work on after the bell!

And later in the day, with same teacher …

S4: Insolent, disrespectful. Continual ignoring instructions. Loud talking. Passing notes. One to behaviour base. Remarks? “Kiss my butt” “Shut up” “Go away! We don’t need your help!”

That is the reality of teaching in West Lothian today and it is a reality which West Lothian Council has still to tackle effectively.

In the meantime, a selection of verbatim extracts, including comments representing the majority which were positive.

June 2004

December 2004 Issure of West Lothian newsletter (pdf)

June 2003 Issue of West Lothian newsletter (Pdf)

May 2003 Issue of West Lothain newsletter (Pdf)

October/ November 2002 issue of West Lothian newsletter

September/October issue of West Lothian newsletter