Engagement, 


Wellbeing & Inclusion Report

Heather McClure

Creating a Safe and Orderly Learning Environment: The Importance of Entry and Exit Routines 

 

At Woodmans Hill Secondary College, we are committed to fostering a learning environment that is safe, structured, and conducive to student success. A key part of this commitment is our focus on clear and consistent entry and exit routines in every classroom. This term we are focusing on the implementation of these routines in all classrooms across the school. 

 

By establishing predictable routines, we ensure that students transition smoothly into and out of lessons, maximizing learning time and reducing unnecessary disruptions. These routines help set a positive tone for each class, reinforcing expectations around respect, responsibility, and readiness to learn. 

 

What Do Effective Entry and Exit Routines Look Like? 

 

Entering the classroom: 

 

Our entry routines are focused on creating a calm and orderly entry. 

  • Students line up outside of classrooms before being greeted by their teacher 

  • Students enter the classroom in a safe and orderly manner 

  • Students are to sit in their allocated seat and have required materials in ALL classes. 

Exiting the classroom: 

 

At the end of the lesson as part of the classroom routine, all students are to ensure that the rubbish is picked up and put in the bin, that chairs are neatly pushed in ( or put on the table at the end of the day) and that students stand, waiting behind their chairs until dismissed. 

  

Why Are These Routines Important? 

  • They create a sense of structure and safety, reducing anxiety and improving student focus. 

  • They maximise instructional time, ensuring students are engaged in meaningful learning from bell to bell. 

  • They promote respect and responsibility, helping students develop lifelong habits of organisation. 

As we continue to prioritise learning success and student wellbeing, we encourage families to reinforce these expectations at home by discussing the importance of being prepared for learning, by arriving to class on time with all learning materials. Together, we can ensure that Woodmans Hill Secondary College remains a place where all students thrive in a safe and supportive learning environment.