What is Behaviour for Learning?

Behaviour4learning (B4L) emphasises the crucial link between the way in which  children and young people learn and their social knowledge and behaviour. In doing this the focus is upon establishing positive relationships across three elements of self, others and curriculum as indicated above. B4L has implications for pupils, teachers, parents and other professionals. Its principles can be applied to all children at any age and not just those perceived as being “difficult to manage”. It applies as much to teachers and their relationship with children as much as it applies to the children themselves.

Elements of a B4L approach can be seen in a range of statutory and non statutory guidance materials. (for example from the DfES Primary National Strategy materials).

B4L is a concept that has emerged from a review of theories of effective behaviour management. Tutors and trainees should recognise that a ‘B4L approach’ is fundamentally linked to a view that ‘behaviour’ in classrooms and whole schools/settings does not occur in isolation – it is the product of a variety of influences and not simply the product of a pupil’s unwillingness to behave or learn as required by the teacher (an approach which has frequently been referred to as an ‘ecosystemic approach’).