Discipline in schools

A photo of a school corridor, showing three posters describing a particular teaching ethos, has started a debate about the right level of discipline in classrooms.

Some suggest the instructions, which include ‘sit up’, ‘eye contact’ and ‘smile’, are indicative of a super-strict approach some schools have taken, which might be distressing for children, especially those with special needs. We find out where this approach came from, and hear about the American educator who popularised the all-important acronym ‘SLANT.’

Supporters of the approach say strict discipline is essential for learning, and that it generates better outcomes. What evidence is there to back this up?

Presenter: Adam Fleming Producers: Simon Tulett, Simon Maybin, Ellie House, Jay Gardner Editor: Richard Vadon