Introduction

In every effective learning environment, Student Discipline and Behavior Management are fundamental pillars that underpin academic success, foster a safe atmosphere, and promote the holistic development of young people. Beyond simply enforcing rules, effective discipline involves creating a supportive framework where students learn self-regulation, respect for others, and responsible decision-making. Proactive behavior management strategies focus on prevention, teaching social-emotional skills, and building positive relationships, rather than solely reacting to misbehavior. Without clear expectations, consistent application of strategies, and a deep understanding of the root causes of behavior, schools risk chaotic environments, diminished learning opportunities, and increased stress for both students and staff. This essential training course focuses on equipping educational professionals with the expertise to master Student Discipline and Behavior Management.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to empower classroom teachers, school leaders, counselors, and support staff with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to implement and champion effective student discipline and behavior management strategies within their school communities. Participants will gain a deep understanding of behavior theories, explore various proactive and reactive intervention techniques, learn about the importance of positive relationships, and acquire skills in de-escalation and crisis management. The course will delve into topics such as positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS), restorative justice practices, classroom management techniques, addressing challenging behaviors, collaborating with families, promoting social-emotional learning, and creating a safe and equitable school climate. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Student Discipline and Behavior Management, participants will be prepared to cultivate orderly, respectful, and highly productive learning environments where every student can thrive.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Classroom Teachers (Primary and Secondary)
• School Principals and Vice Principals
• Deans of Students and Discipline Coordinators
• School Counselors and Psychologists
• Special Education Teachers
• School Social Workers
• School Support Staff (e.g., teaching assistants, behavioral aides)
• Aspiring Educational Leaders
• Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Leaders involved in school climate
• Professionals in after-school programs

Objectives

• Understand the theories and principles behind student behavior and discipline.
• Learn about proactive strategies for creating a positive classroom and school climate.
• Acquire skills in implementing effective classroom management techniques.
• Comprehend various interventions for addressing challenging behaviors.
• Explore methodologies for utilizing positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS).
• Understand the role of restorative justice practices in managing discipline.
• Gain insights into collaborating with families and external support services.
• Develop a personal action plan for improving student discipline and behavior management in their context.

Course Content

Module 1: Understanding Student Behavior

• Theories of child and adolescent development influencing behavior.
• Functions of behavior: why students act the way they do (e.g., attention, escape, sensory).
• Factors influencing behavior: home environment, social dynamics, learning differences.
• Distinguishing between misbehavior, challenging behavior, and behavioral disorders.
• The impact of emotions and trauma on student behavior.

Module 2: Proactive Classroom and School-Wide Management

• Establishing clear expectations, rules, and routines.
• Designing positive physical and emotional learning environments.
• Building strong, positive relationships with students.
• Using positive reinforcement and praise effectively.
• Preventative strategies for common behavioral issues.

Module 3: Effective Classroom Management Techniques

• Active supervision and proximity control.
• Non-verbal cues and signaling.
• Providing clear and concise instructions.
• Managing transitions smoothly.
• Differentiating behavior management strategies for diverse learners.

Module 4: Addressing Challenging Behaviors

• De-escalation techniques for angry or disruptive students.
• Setting logical consequences and effective interventions.
• Crisis intervention strategies and safety protocols.
• Developing individualized behavior support plans (IBSPs).
• The role of functional behavior assessments (FBAs).

Module 5: Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

• Understanding the multi-tiered framework of PBIS.
• Implementing universal supports for all students (Tier 1).
• Targeted interventions for at-risk students (Tier 2).
• Intensive, individualized supports for students with significant needs (Tier 3).
• Data collection and analysis for PBIS implementation.

Module 6: Restorative Justice Practices in Schools

• Principles of restorative justice: repairing harm, building relationships.
• Restorative conversations, circles, and conferences.
• Moving from punitive discipline to a focus on accountability and healing.
• Addressing bullying and conflicts through restorative approaches.
• Integrating restorative practices into existing school discipline policies.

Module 7: Collaboration with Families and Support Services

• Building strong partnerships with parents to address behavior challenges.
• Effective communication strategies with families.
• Involving external support services: counselors, social workers, mental health professionals.
• Understanding legal frameworks related to student discipline and parental rights.
• Developing a collaborative support network for students.

Module 8: Creating a Safe, Equitable, and Inclusive School Climate

• The link between discipline and school climate.
• Addressing bias and disproportionality in disciplinary practices.
• Promoting social-emotional learning skills in students (e.g., empathy, conflict resolution).
• Developing a school-wide code of conduct.
• Leading a culture that prioritizes safety, respect, and belonging for all.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training