The beginning of the school year is an exciting time for students, but it can also bring nerves and uncertainty. To make sure the start of the school year is seamless for your pupils, you must create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. We’ve written this blog to share some ideas to help you achieve this as your pupils return to school and share with you a free teaching resource download to help you begin speaking to your pupils about this topic. Download the teaching pack here.
Why respectful communication is important in schools
Respectful communication is central to a happy and safe classroom environment. When students learn to express themselves thoughtfully and listen to others, it creates a culture of mutual respect. This is essential for building strong relationships and promoting a positive school experience.
Building friendships through positive interaction
Friendship plays a vital role in a student’s happiness and success at school. By encouraging positive interactions and providing structured opportunities for students to connect, you can help students form lasting friendships that enhance their school experience.
Three ways to help pupils create friendships at the start of term:
- Group Projects: Encourage collaboration on projects to help students work together and build connections.
- Buddy Systems: Pair students up, especially new ones, to help them feel more comfortable and supported.
- Classroom Games: Use fun activities that promote teamwork and interaction.
Schools’ role in supporting pupils’ friendships
Schools have a key role in guiding students’ social development, especially during the back-to-school transition. Through activities like morning circles and group discussions, you can create spaces where students feel heard and valued, improving their confidence in social settings and their sense of belonging.
The key benefits of promoting social development:
- Increased Confidence: Students who feel connected are more likely to participate in class.
- Improved Academic Performance: Positive peer relationships can lead to better focus and motivation.
- Enhanced Emotional Wellbeing: Feeling valued and respected contributes to overall happiness at school.
Download Our Back to School Teaching Resource Pack
To help you foster respect, communication, and friendship in your classroom, we’ve developed a free ‘Back to School’ teaching pack. This resource has assemblies, classroom activities, and posters to help you kick off your school year on a positive note.