Teaching, not punishing: A former principal offers guide to more effective discipline

Discipline in schools requires a holistic approach that highlights the underlying issues rather than just imposing punishments.

This is according to retired school principal Mike Russell in his memoir Matters of Principal.

With 40 years of experience at various schools across South Africa, he shares his unique perspective on the complexities of discipline.

Speaking to CapeTalk’s Pippa Hudson, Russell explained the importance of relationships and climate control in schools.

He emphasised that discipline and punishment are not synonyms, and that true discipline involves teaching and guiding students to make better choices.

“Punishment can be a result of discipline that doesn’t actually work.

“It is a teaching experience or opportunity. But I don’t know if a child learns anything from an automated three detentions before I did or didn’t do something.”

Russell’s approach to discipline focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel valued and heard.

“If you can get the behaviour to change, become more acceptable, and there is a lesson in there, then you have done something worthwhile. And often those lessons stay with those kids for a long while,” he said.

To listen to Russell, use the audio player below: