Welsh Government outlines new approach to behaviour

The Welsh Government has outlined a new, collaborative approach to addressing behaviour in schools following the National Behaviour Summit, held on 22 May. 

Cabinet Secretary for Education Lynne Neagle unveiled a summary report detailing the event’s key outcomes and the next steps for improving behaviour and wellbeing in Welsh classrooms.

The Summit brought together nearly 120 stakeholders — including school leaders, frontline practitioners, and policy experts.The event focused on supporting every child and young person to thrive through inclusive, evidence-informed practices.

Neagle emphasised that the growing body of data — including findings from the National Behaviour Survey and the Roundtable on Safety and Violence — will feed directly into an action plan to shape the Welsh Government’s future programme of work on behaviour. This includes five immediate measures announced in May to provide targeted support to schools and drive better outcomes for learners.

Two new national forums, launched this month, will support the Government’s ambition to accelerate meaningful collaboration. One will focus on the use of mobile phones and social media in school settings; the other will examine issues around exclusions and detentions. Both forums include representation from headteachers and practitioners to ensure practical experience and frontline challenges shape policy development.

Further research, currently in its early stages, will seek to provide tailored insights—especially from parents and carers. Neagle also confirmed that the Government is enhancing its engagement with learners through closer alignment with the Welsh Youth Parliament’s Crime and Safety Committee.

Lynne Neagle said: "I remain committed to a wider programme of engagement in the autumn, with a key focus on practitioner, learner and parental voice. Together, we will co-create effective, evidence-informed solutions to deliver tangible, actionable outcomes, leading to positive change in classrooms across Wales."

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