Have you Noticed?

Positive Classroom Management Strategies

A quiet buzz has settled on Fairfield Primary School this year. Have you noticed?

The introduction of four of the Positive Classroom Management Strategies (PCMS) has both teachers and students feeling the benefits of structured, positive approaches in fostering supportive learning environments, minimising cognitive load and enhancing social and emotional development.

The first two weeks of school are always planned as a Start Up program, with a major focus on teachers getting to know students, students becoming familiar with their new classmates and teachers, and everyone building a shared understanding of the expectations of being a part of that class.

This year, as an important part of the Start Up program, teachers have introduced, taught, modelled and practised four Positive Classroom Management Strategies:

• Entering the classroom
• Exiting the classroom
• Gaining their teacher’s attention
• Working independently

As teams, teachers have created posters to remind themselves and students of the steps in the procedures.

And that quiet buzz?

The evidence says that creating more predictable classroom atmospheres by adopting these Positive Classroom Management Strategies improves overall wellbeing of both teachers and students, promoting better student outcomes.

What are some parents saying?

• ‘There’s a strong sense of calm around the school.’
• ‘Assembly was amazing, I could see the difference all the structures have made.’

What are the students saying?

• ‘It’s made school easier and it’s not so hectic all of the time.’ ~ Edie W, 4A
• School is better because the school looks more neat and your teacher is happy with you.’ ~ Will J, 3B
• When you line up it’s nicer because people don’t budge you and hit you.’ ~ Margot, 3B
• It’s made it much easier – there’s less noise so it’s easier for the teachers to communicate with us. It’s a great example for the preps! ~ Edmund, 6C
• It’s much better because the teachers are stricter, but good stricter. ~ Maggie, 6C

What are the teachers saying?

• ‘It’s calm, a calm atmosphere, a calm vibe, and the students have responded extremely well to the expectations.’
• ‘This year feels more calm and structured.’
• ‘All of the classes coming to the library line up quietly, listen to their teachers and they’re calm in the library.’
• ‘I’ve seen smoother transitions in the classroom and around the school, and a consistent approach and language e school wide means that everyone is on the same page. It links so well to our SWPBS matrix.’
• ‘It’s been really nice to see students moving around the school in a consistent way and reminding each other of the expectations. It’s great as a specialist to be able to use the same language as they are learning in their classrooms.’
• ‘It’s made for a wonderful start for Term 1.’
• ‘It allows the students to focus more on their learning because they know what is expected of them.’

A comment from a visiting allied health professional:

• I’ve noticed a positive shift here at FPS – what’s changed?

Even the cleaning team has commented on the general tidiness and great feel at FPS!

You can find out more about Positive Classroom Management Strategies below. 

Cathy Turner

Wellbeing Leading Teacher