Since 1995 Preston Manor High School in London has been developing ways to help pupils with challenging behaviour move forward rather than be excluded. Andy Ward, assistant head teacher, explains they were concerned about the high exclusion rate of Black African and Caribbean boys. After consultation the school introduced programmes specifically designed to address their needs. These include an anger management scheme in which pupils are encouraged to talk about what upsets them and role-play positive responses to a variety of situations. Child psychotherapist Emile Jackson also visits the school on a regular basis and works with both pupils and teachers to explore what lies behind the behavioural patterns in question. The scheme includes a Pastoral Support Plan, agreed with each boy and his parents, and reinforced with mentoring. Throughout the programme hear the views of pupils and staff with comments from Robert Reid, Inclusion Officer, and from the Head of SEN for Brent LEA.

Video Series: Secondary Management
Release Date 2005