School Behaviour Secrets with Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton

• The January Reset: How To Use The Fresh Start Effect To Transform Classroom Behaviour

  The first week of January isn’t just “back to school” - it’s one of the most effective behaviour intervention points of the entire year. In this episode, we explore how to harness the psychology of the Fresh Start Effect to reset classroom routines, rebuild relationships and help pupils begin the new term with confidence rather than shame.You’ll discover:• Why January works better than September for behaviour resets• How to create whole-class “New Year resolutions” that shift identity, not just rules• A powerful symbolic activity to help individual pupils let go of last term’s mistakes• How to rebuild safety and trust with pupils who struggled in the autumn• Practical ways to re-teach routines, reduce sensory overload and reset the emotional climate• How January can lower PAIN-driven stress and improve SEMH outcomes across the classWhether you’re a teacher, SENCO or school leader, this episode gives you a clear, needs-led roadmap for starting the term calmer and more connected - so your pupils can thrive from day one.Perfect for any school looking to make January feel like a true fresh start, not “September, part two.”Important links:Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources

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• RSD and ADHD: The Hidden Trigger Behind Sudden Classroom Meltdowns

  When a pupil goes from “fine” to “furious” because you asked them to correct one sentence, it’s easy to think they’re overreacting. But for many children with ADHD, even small corrections can feel like rejection - triggering intense emotional pain known as Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, you’ll learn what RSD actually is, why it’s so strongly linked with ADHD, and how it shows up in the classroom through explosive moments, sudden shutdowns, perfectionism, or quiet withdrawal.You’ll learn how feedback can unintentionally trigger RSD, why some pupils take even gentle corrections to heart, and the practical shifts teachers can make to reduce distress, support emotional regulation, and keep expectations high. We also share two simple strategies you can use this week to prevent blow-ups and help pupils feel safe enough to learn.If you’ve ever wondered, “Why did they react like that?” - this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need.Important links:Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources

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• From Festive Chaos To Calm Classrooms - Helping Pupils Cope With Christmas

  Christmas is exciting… but in schools, it can also send behaviour spiralling.Between nativity rehearsals, parties, Christmas jumper day, and all the glitter-induced chaos, many pupils tip from festive fun to full-on overwhelm faster than you can say “silent night.”In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, you’ll learn why December is such a challenging month for regulation, the hidden SEMH pressures pupils face and the simple changes that help children stay settled so they can actually enjoy the fun.You’ll learn:Why Christmas disrupts the nervous system for many pupilsThe bedtime routine analogy that explains festive behaviour perfectlyPractical strategies you can use immediately to reduce silliness, anxiety and pre-holiday chaosHow to help pupils enjoy Christmas without tipping into dysregulationIf you want a calmer, happier run-up to the holidays — for you and your pupils — this episode is your roadmap.Important links:Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources

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• When Rewards Stop Working: How To Build Behaviour That Lasts

  Ever had that moment where your reward system just… stops working? The stickers lose their sparkle, the house points barely register, and suddenly every child in your class is asking, “What do I get if I follow the rules?” It’s frustrating, it’s exhausting, and it leaves you wondering what on earth to try next.In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we unpack why reward systems lose power over time – and what the science of motivation says we should be doing instead. We’ll explore the hedonic treadmill, reward inflation, and the classic study that shows how easy it is to accidentally kill intrinsic motivation in children. And we’ll look at why transactional “tit for tat” systems can be especially damaging for pupils with SEMH and SEND needs.Then we’ll dig into what actually works long-term. You’ll learn how to build behaviour that lasts, how to make motivation stick even when there’s a supply teacher in the room, and how to transition away from over-reliance on stickers and points without causing a classroom riot.If you want your pupils to behave well because it’s who they are – not because they think they’ll earn a token, house point, Dojo and sticker – this episode is for you.Important links:Get your copy of the Classroom Management Scoresheet: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/classroom-management-scoresheetDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources

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• Escape Behaviour Firefighting with the PAIN Framework

  When pupils show persistent, emotionally escalated behaviour, it’s easy to focus on the surface - the shouting, the refusal, the walking out  - and miss the real cause.In this episode, you’ll learn how to use the PAIN framework (Physical, Emotional, Cognitive, Social, Prosocial, and Transition needs) to help your pupils make progress with their SEMH needs. You’ll follow the story of Liam, an 11-year-old pupil whose behaviour seemed oppositional - until the PAIN lens revealed hidden what was happening below the surface and driving his behaviour.You’ll discover:How to identify unmet needs using the PAIN framework – and use this to pick the right support strategies for your studentsWhy those needs can mimic “defiance” and “chosen behaviour”How to replace traditional behaviour plans with proactive regulation plans that prevent crises before they startIf you’ve ever thought, “I’ve tried every strategy, and nothing works,” this episode will show you how to think like an SEMH specialist - and how the PAIN framework can transform your understanding of your student’s behaviour.Important links:Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources

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