The start of the new school year brings both excitement and uncertainty for many pupils. As term begins, we may see a wide range of behaviour - withdrawal, clinginess, over-excitment, or outbursts of anger - as they transition out of the summer holidays and return to new teachers, classmates, subjects or even new schools.
We know all behaviour is communication, and below the surface, pupils want to feel safe, seen, and understood. When we try to really know our pupils - their unique stories, emotional landscapes, and social world - we can respond with understanding, and create a supportive environment and culture of belonging.
Establishing emotional safety
Pupils learn best in environments where they feel emotionally secure. After all, learning is a risk, and pupils need to feel safe enough to take that risk. By showing genuine interest in who they are and how they are doing - beyond their behaviour - we can create that safe base that is foundational to learning.
Recognising the whole child
Every pupil arrives at school with both positive and challenging experiences that shape their readiness to learn. Understanding their emotional and social context is crucial!
As nurturing educators, we see the child first and the learner second. Being attuned to and responsive helps us build trust that enables pupils to take learning risks and bounce back from setbacks.
“The Boxall gives you ownership, you can unpick the child’s behaviour and put strategies in place in class. It improves your understanding and your relationship with the child.”
- Primary school teacher
Top tips for the start of the year:
- Check-in rituals: If we give students the emotional vocabulary they need to express themselves, and the opportunity for regular self-reflection, it can help build connection and emotional safety. A quick “How are you feeling today?” can open unexpected windows into what matters most.
- Flexible routines: Small adaptations support inclusion and can help reduce feelings of overwhelm for pupils.
- Observe dynamics: Both peer and individual dynamics will help us to understand social needs and friendship patterns. Small group tasks or paired buddies can help students find belonging early on.
Once we understand each pupil’s social and emotional needs, we can craft more effective tailored support. Tools like the Boxall Profile® Online help us to not only understand the social and emotional development needs of our pupils, but also to implement strategies, and track their progress over time.
As we commit to really knowing our pupils, we can start the year with insights that unlock the potential for deeper relationships and more resilient learning.
Try the Boxall Profile® Online with a 30-day free trial
Join thousands of professionals who are making a tangible difference in the lives of children, supporting the social, emotional, and mental health of all children and young people, to positively impact their learning, behaviour, attendance, and wellbeing.