'Time-in' versus 'time-out'. How alternative provisions are tackling behaviour

10th November 2022 2 minute read

Blogs

Share this post:

 
'Time-in' versus 'time-out'. How alternative provisions are tackling behaviour

Support instead of sanctions

Behaviour in the classroom can be a major cause of stress and frustration and have a lasting impact on pupil attainment. Yet the responses to behaviour adopted by alternative provisions across the UK are as many and varied as their rates of success.

When the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition asked for views on current approaches to behaviour management, 56% of educators said the techniques used by their schools were ineffective. Plus, there was widespread concern about the use of punitive measures.

 

 

Promoting discipline instead of invoking punishment

At Thrive, we advocate replacing ‘time-out’ with ‘time-in’ with an adult as one of the most powerful ways of changing future behaviour.

This relational approach to promoting discipline rather than invoking punishment is one of the many factors that has improved behaviour and engagement at The Elland Academy in Leeds and Knottingley.

Head of Academy, Ed Staton, said:

“The difference Thrive has made to our students is clear. We have had a significant reduction in exclusions and an increase in attendance across all three key-stages. Whole group and individual profiling have really helped our team to meet the emotional and social needs of our children.”

Assistant Principal, Simone King, added:

“We work with children who have difficulties accessing mainstream classrooms. We know that all behaviour is a communication of unmet need and we are here to get to the bottom of what’s going on for them. We have to ensure that they feel safe, special, and that they have a positive relationship with staff so that they are able to go on to learn.”

DJ, pupil at Elland Academy, quote

 

Over to you

At Thrive, we’ve been supporting educators to tackle behaviour for over 25 years. If you’re seeking calmer classrooms, engaged learners and improved attainment, click here to book a Discovery Call with your regional expert. Designed to fit in around your schedule, these free 30-minute conversations via Teams give you a chance to have your questions answered, decide if our service is a fit for your needs, and identify if you qualify for a £1,200 DfE grant to spend in your setting.

Pass it on

Small actions can lead to a big ripple effect. If you enjoyed this post or found it helpful, please consider supporting us in our mission to help every child and young person feel safe, supported and ready to learn by sharing it using the social media buttons below.

Want to join a like-minded community of senior leaders and classroom staff benefitting from insights and strategies to improve attendance, behaviour and attainment? Add your email address below. (It’s easy to unsubscribe).

 

Sector updates delivered straight to your inbox

Subscribe to the Thrive newsletter and receive our latest sector advice direct to your inbox

Subscribe today

 

Related content

Unauthorised Absence: Listening to families, supporting schools, challenging the system

13th November 2026 | Blogs | News

Unauthorised Absence: Listening to families, supporting schools, challenging the system

Drawing on her experience as a headteacher, foster carer and parent, Viv Trask-Hall reflects on Unauthorised Absence and the families struggling to be heard. She explores what children experiencing school distress need, the pressures facing educators and why wider change is needed.

Read full article →

Professional development that fits around you: Introducing Thrive's new on-demand courses

13th November 2026 | Blogs

Professional development that fits around you: Introducing Thrive's new on-demand courses

Discover Thrive's new range of on-demand short courses, designed to make professional learning more flexible and accessible for busy educators. Explore practical, evidence-informed online courses that help you deepen your understanding of children's social and emotional development, build confidence and strengthen everyday practice – all at a time and pace that works for you.

Read full article →

Thrive Launches New Teaching Assistant Level 3 Apprenticeship

30th October 2026 | Blogs | News

Thrive Launches New Teaching Assistant Level 3 Apprenticeship

A new funded pathway for teaching assistants in the earlier stages of their career, looking to gain a nationally recognised qualification while developing the skills to support children's social and emotional development.

Read full article →

CONTACT US