Speakers' Corner

PAT: Workable ways to improve school discipline

Friday, 21 Oct 2005 12:49

The Professional Association of Teachers (PAT) has said that today's Steer report into school discipline suggests "relevant and workable ways of tackling a major social and educational problem".

And the union welcomed the task force's recommendation that the government should introduce new legislation to clarify the right of schools to discipline pupils.

General secretary Jean Gemmell said: "Poor pupil behaviour is a major concern for teachers and we know that many have left the profession because of it.

"We believe that parents must understand their duties and responsibilities regarding the behaviour of their children."

However, she added that the association would seek "assurances" that any new powers would "not conflict with any existing or new legislation".

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PAT: Workable ways to improve school discipline

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