Five years ago, St. Andrew's Primary in North Pickenham was a problem school. Now, headteacher Jeni Barnacle has transformed behaviour and performance by adopting Nurture Group principles. These involve creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and positive values, with great emphasis on role play and hands-on learning. At King Harold School in Waltham Abbey, Year 10 students are undergoing 'brain mapping', to find out about their individual strengths and weaknesses. The aim here is that self-knowledge is an important route to personal fulfilment. At Strath Haven High School in Pennsylvania, positive psychology has been introduced to the curriculum. Finally, Alsop High School in Liverpool is exploring the use of humour. Professional comedian Steph Davies is building up pupils' self-confidence by running workshops in stand-up comedy. At the same time she is working with teachers to develop strategies for use in lessons. Richard Millwood presents the programme.

Video Series: School Matters
Release Date 2006