The Basics of Circle Time
Circle time has stood the test of time
There’s a reason for that. As a way of building relationships and self-esteem there isn’t a better formal method. It just works.
It’s the classroom equivalent of the family meal but instead of it being around the table it’s around the circle. We all get a chance to speak, to share and to learn. You might be able to tell that I love it.
Not just for primary school
I was a primary teacher for twelve years before moving to secondary in 2008. I took my love of circle time with me and once the students had got over the initial “we used to do this at primary school” phase, I think they loved it.
I’ve used it and continue to use it with my form and whenever I can fit it into my subject teaching. I think it should be just something schools do. I also think they should do it as often as possible.
Concentrate on managing relationships
When we do this, managing behaviour gets so much easier. When I shared a behaviour policy from an outstanding school recently, some of you noticed that it is actually called a “Behaviour and Relationship Policy”.
Human relationships are complicated but there are easy wins. Regular circle time is one of them.
A 2-Side Guide to Circle Time
There is more info on Jenny Moseley’s website but if you’d like a 2-side of A4 guide to the Basics of Circle Time download it here.
