Teachers and pupils asked to speak out about behaviour in schools
Date published:
Teachers, parents and pupils across Northern Ireland are being asked to have their say on behaviour in schools as Education Minister Paul Givan launches a major Call for Evidence to help shape future policy.
The engagement exercise forms part of the Department of Education's review of behaviour policy and practice, that is currently being taken forward by Tom Bennett OBE. The review will help inform a new policy and updated guidance for schools.
Launching the Call for Evidence, Paul Givan said:
"Every child deserves to learn in a safe, calm and orderly classroom where they can achieve their full potential and every teacher deserves to be able to teach without ongoing disruption.
"While many schools have high standards of behaviour, I have heard directly from teachers and school leaders that managing behaviour is becoming increasingly challenging in some classrooms.
"We cannot ignore those concerns. Poor behaviour affects learning, places additional pressure on teachers and can have an impact on the wellbeing of both staff and pupils.”
The Department is seeking input from both teachers and post-primary pupils through surveys, alongside a wider Call for Evidence which is seeking input from school leaders, parents, academics and education organisations. The exercises will provide a comprehensive picture of behaviour, disruption and safety in schools.
Paul Givan continued:
"I want to hear directly from those who experience behaviour issues in the classroom, whether that is teachers, pupils, parents or school leaders. I want to know what works well and what issues exist.
"The information gathered will help us identify what is working well, where support is needed and what practical steps can be taken to strengthen behaviour standards."
The Call for Evidence will explore the nature and scale of behaviour issues facing schools, the impact on teaching and learning, the factors influencing behaviour, examples of effective practice and potential solutions for the future.
Teachers are being asked to share their experiences of issues such as lesson disruption, impact on wellbeing, confidence and safety, while pupils are being asked about their experiences of disruption, bullying, behaviour and feeling safe in school.
Responses will inform the current review and help shape a new behaviour policy, ensuring that future guidance is informed by evidence and the experiences of those working and learning in schools.
The Call for Evidence opens on 15 September 2026 and closes on 6 October 2026.
Further information on how to participate is available: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/call-evidence-review-behaviour-policy-and-practice-schools
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