Secondary schools are now on board with the Schools’ Positive Behaviour Management Programme (SPBMP), and come early next month over 60 principals and team leaders will undergo training to ensure effective implementation within their classrooms.
The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development will conduct the training sessions on Thursday, March 3 and Friday, March 4, at the Savannah Hotel, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Among the issues to be discussed are the school-wide application of SPBMP; the creation of a culture of positive discipline and data management. Consultant psychologist, Dr. Kerry King will conduct the training sessions.
The SPBMP (formerly called the Child Friendly Schools programme) was first introduced into the Barbadian school system, in May 2007, at the Hillaby Turners Hall Primary School. Since then, that school has reported a decrease in the number of cases being reported to the principal; a reduction in the use of corporal punishment in the classroom; improved behaviours among the student population, and a willingness by children to express themselves.
The workshop will be officially opened by Acting Chief Education Officer, Laurie King, at 9:00 a.m.
There are currently 19 primary schools and one secondary school in the programme. Following the training, 12 more secondary schools will start the process of implementing the SPBMP principles.
jgill@barbados.gov.bb