Managing behaviour in secondary schools
Behaviour is one of the biggest challenges in secondary schools. It affects teaching time, student outcomes, staff wellbeing, and whole-school culture.
In 2023–24 there were 955,000 suspensions in England, a 21% increase on the previous year. Permanent exclusions also rose by 16% to 10,900 (DfE). The most common reason? Persistent disruptive behaviour.
Behind these numbers are young people whose social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs are not being met. This is where Thrive's targeted SEMH intervention can help.
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Improving behaviour starts with understanding the context
From anxiety and trauma to difficulties with attachment, when young people lack the skills to regulate, it often shows up as challenging behaviour. The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) advises that universal behaviour systems won’t meet the needs of every pupil. For those with more challenging behaviour, interventions should be adapted to the individual, with staff trained in specific strategies to provide the right support.
Key strategies for behaviour management in secondary schools:
• Developing a consistent secondary school behaviour policy – one that sets clear expectations but allows for flexibility and targeted support.
• Focusing on relationships – students are more likely to engage positively when they feel safe, respected, and understood.
• Using targeted behaviour interventions – Thrive helps schools assess students’ social and emotional skills and create tailored action plans.
• Embedding behaviour management strategies in the classroom – creating a positive learning environment.
Improve behaviour, attendance and mental health through proven SEMH support
Download SEMH intervention guide
What are common triggers of challenging behaviours in secondary schools?
Challenging behaviour rarely happens without cause. In secondary schools, common triggers include:
• Difficult transitions (KS3 to KS4, or moving between classes)
• Peer relationships, bullying, and social pressures
• Mental health difficulties such as anxiety or depression
• Experiences outside school, including family stress or instability
Understanding these drivers helps schools respond more effectively. It also supports the emphasis from inspection bodies on creating calm, orderly environments where pupils feel safe and able to learn.
Ofsted and behaviour management
In the Ofsted framework, behaviour and attitudes are a core judgement. Inspectors expect schools to:
• Establish and maintain a culture of positive behaviour
• Understand each pupil's context, needs and challenges
• Implement well-chosen, targeted interventions where needed
• Reduce suspensions and exclusions with proactive approaches
Schools that can evidence targeted behaviour interventions, linked to students’ wider SEMH needs, are better placed to meet these expectations.
Sammy's Story: An intervention in practice
Sammy (name changed) was at risk of permanent exclusion. With targeted SEMH support he rebuilt trust, learned to manage emotions, and grew into a role model for his peers.
The impact? Fewer exclusions, improved attendance, and a stronger school culture.
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Join the schools already proving impact and retaining staff
27%
Fewer exclusions
Than the national average*.
15%
Lower severe absence
Severe absence is 15% lower in schools that fully embed Thrive, compared to those that don't*.
5%
Improvement in staff wellbeing
Teachers in Thrive schools have better staff wellbeing than the national average*.
* Data based on findings from two ImpactEd studies comparing Thrive schools with schools nationally in 2023–24.
DOWNLOAD SEMH INTERVENTION GUIDE
Supporting behaviour in secondary schools
This evidence-backed intervention equips staff with the training and tools to respond calmly, consistently, and with strategies that last. The package is made up of an annual Thrive-Online subscription, Thrive Licensed Practitioner training, and implementation support, which tailored pricing to suit your needs.
What does a targeted intervention look like?
- Assessments to identify gaps in students’ social and emotional skills
- Tailored action plans with age-and stage-appropriate strategies
- Ongoing monitoring of progress and impact with Thrive-Online
- Evidence for leadership and inspections to demonstrate effectiveness
Frequently asked questions
Thrive’s SEMH intervention includes:
Thrive Licensed Practitioner training (one-off fee of £1,720 + VAT)Nominate one colleague to become your Thrive lead. They’ll be equipped with the skills to build strong relationships and deliver targeted one-to-one interventions.
Quickly identify students facing barriers to learning with Thrive’s assessment tool. Identify SEMH needs, plan targeted interventions and demonstrate progress and impact.