Secondary SEAL

In July 2007, Ofsted published Developing social, emotional and behavioural skills in secondary schools. This report evaluated the pilot programme over five terms in eleven schools. The research found that the pilot was introduced most successfully when senior leaders understood its underlying philosophy. Its greatest impact was on developing teachers' understanding of pupils' emotional and social development. Such understanding improved interaction between teachers and pupils. In nine of the schools the work helped to change systems in the school and influence behaviour management. In six schools it improved lesson planning, teaching and the organisation of learning. Pupils' resilience increased, as did their teamwork and their willingness to take risks in their learning.

The government commissioned the National Foundation for Educational Research to evaluate the pilot. This research, Secondary social emotional and beavioural skills, was published in 2007. The study selected just over fifty schools in six local authority areas. The project found the implementation of the programme to be a dynamic process, with schools gradually developing and expanding the work they had undertaken. Interviewees wanted a closer incorporation of the programme into PSHE, incorporation into other subjects and expansion of awareness to all pupils, parents and the wider community.