Are School Reward Systems The Key To Academic Achievement?

School reward systems are a crucial tool for managing behaviour in the classroom, actively promoting school values, and teaching children the difference between right and wrong. These systems are largely grounded in the theories of behaviourism and social learning, which posit that providing rewards for good behaviour will eventually lead children to exhibit such behaviour independently.

A recent Ofsted survey revealed that 1 in 20 primary school teachers reported losing more than ten minutes of teaching time per hour due to low-level disruptions in the classroom. If this is generalised, it implies that each primary school has at least one teacher struggling to maintain an orderly classroom environment.

The primary reasons for this disruption were found to be inconsistencies in the application of the school’s behaviour policy. This highlights the urgent need for effective and consistent school reward systems in educational settings. But what exactly are school reward systems, and how can they be implemented?

Understanding School Reward Systems

School reward systems involve a set of agreed-upon ‘rules’ that reflect the school’s core values and promote the desired behaviours. Children are made aware of their standing within the system and understand how they can earn points, merits, or progress to a higher level. Conversely, negative behaviour results in losing points, receiving a warning, or ultimately facing a sanction.

Implementing these systems as a whole-school approach is most effective. This means that the entire school, from teachers to students, understands and follows the same set of rules and expectations. This approach not only sets a clear standard of behaviour but also makes it easier for teaching staff to manage the class and reward good behaviour and hard work.

A recent study found that “evidence suggests that reward systems can create a school culture that is seen as positive, safe, predictable, and consistent.” This is particularly important given the existing attainment gap in the education system. It is crucial that all children feel they can achieve success and will be held accountable for undesired behaviour. This not only helps pupils feel safe within the school setting but also fosters an environment conducive to learning.

How Do Reward Systems Work?

As a primary school teacher, I have found that rewarding positive behaviour is the most effective form of discipline. Most children have a natural desire to please and achieve. When implemented well, behaviour systems can foster a sense of community within a school. Children can be rewarded for helping each other, being polite to other members of the school, and trying new things.

Benefits for Older Children

For older primary school children, specifically in years 5 and 6, the responsibility of giving out rewards to fellow pupils for positive behaviour can be incredibly beneficial. This not only teaches children responsibility and teamwork but also encourages them to take ownership of their reward charts, thereby developing independence and accountability.

Custom Printed Planners and Reward Charts

Custom printed planners with integrated reward charts are an excellent way to track and reward positive behaviour consistently. These planners can be customised to reflect the school’s values, goals, and reward system. For example, a planner could include pages for tracking good behaviour, completed homework, or acts of kindness.

The School Planner Company specialises in creating tailor-made behaviour charts and planners that align precisely with your school’s reward systems. Using the pupil planner to record rewards ensures consistency across the entire school and increases visibility, both at home and at school.

Praise Cards

Praise cards are another effective tool for recognising and rewarding positive behaviour. Custom printed praise cards can include the school’s logo, a positive message, and space for the teacher to write a personalised note. These cards can be handed out to students who exhibit desired behaviours, such as helping a classmate, participating in class, or completing their work on time. Receiving a praise card not only rewards the student but also serves as a tangible reminder of their positive behaviour.

Reward Stickers

Custom printed reward stickers are a popular and cost-effective way to reward positive behaviour. Stickers can be customised with the school’s logo, positive messages, or images that reflect the school’s values. Teachers can give out stickers to students who exhibit desired behaviours, and students can collect them in their planners or on a reward chart. Collecting stickers can be a motivating and tangible way for students to see their progress and achievements.

5 Benefits of Custom Printed School Resources

1. Reinforces School Identity: Custom printed school resources with the school’s logo and colours reinforce the school’s identity and values. This helps create a sense of belonging and pride among the students.
2. Creates a Positive Learning Environment: Rewarding positive behaviour with custom printed school resources creates a positive learning environment where students are motivated to exhibit desired behaviours.
3. Promotes Consistency: Using custom printed school resources as part of the school reward system promotes consistency across the entire school. This ensures that all students and staff are on the same page and understand the expectations and rewards.
4. Increases Engagement: Custom printed school resources can increase engagement among students. Receiving tangible rewards, such as stickers, praise cards, or a note in their planner, can be more motivating for students than verbal praise alone.
5. Fosters a Sense of Achievement: Receiving custom printed school resources as rewards fosters a sense of achievement among students. This can boost their self-esteem and motivate them to continue exhibiting positive behaviour.

Conclusion

In summary, the implementation of school reward systems is not only essential for managing classroom behaviour and promoting school values but also for instilling a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and accountability in students. The use of custom printed school resources, such as planners with integrated reward charts, praise cards, and reward stickers, enhances the effectiveness of these systems by reinforcing the school’s identity, creating a positive learning environment, promoting consistency, increasing engagement, and fostering a sense of achievement among students. The School Planner Company, by providing tailor-made tools, plays a crucial role in helping schools implement and manage these systems effectively, thereby contributing to a positive, safe, and consistent learning environment for all.