Publication
SUCCESS Project
The Mulberry Bush School SUCCESS project was funded for three years as an Action Research Project working with Oxfordshire mainstream schools, broadening our...
What is it about?
Challenging behaviour continues to be a cause of increasing concern in many schools. SUCCESS, The Mulberry Bush Organisation's action research project worked with four Oxfordshire mainstream schools between 2008 and 2011. Headteachers reported a more cohesive ‘whole school’ atmosphere, with staff sharing and supporting one another – evidence suggested fundamental changes in school culture. This helped staff to better understand children’s emotional needs and challenging behaviours, which led to adaptations and improved integrated provision.
Why is it important?
Many main stream teachers are struggling to manage children's challenging behaviour with fewer resources and little specific training in this area. Improving staff cohesion and developing a shared approach to challenging behaviour has positive effects on children's learning This research suggested that the core values of The Mulberry Bush School are transferable to mainstream schools.
Perspectives
This is what one head teacher said about participating in the project 'Dealing with challenging behaviour is not solely about a range of strategies, but rather about the development of good professional relationships between teachers and pupils based on an understanding of need'. It's great that our core ways of working are applicable in mainstream settings.
