Education experts have branded the Scottish National Party's (SNP) latest school guidance as a 'recipe for chaos' after officials advised teachers to avoid using the term 'detention' when disciplining violent or disruptive pupils.
The controversial policy, outlined in the Scottish Government's 'Included, Engaged and Involved' document, suggests alternative phrases like 'reflection time' to describe punitive measures – a move critics say undermines authority and could escalate bad behaviour.
'Green Light for Anarchy'
Leading behaviour specialist Paul Dix condemned the approach: 'This isn't progressive – it's a green light for anarchy in classrooms. When you refuse to call detention what it is, you erode the consequences that keep schools safe.'
The guidance forms part of the SNP's wider 'restorative practices' initiative, which emphasises mediation over traditional discipline. But teachers' unions report a 38% rise in physical assaults on staff since similar policies were introduced.
What the Guidance Says
- Avoid 'stigmatising' language like detention or punishment
- Use 'positive behaviour management' techniques
- Focus on 'relationship repair' after incidents
- Reduce exclusions through 'inclusive practices'
Scottish Conservative education spokesperson Liam Kerr blasted: 'This woke wordplay puts political correctness before pupil and teacher safety. Violent children need clear boundaries, not semantic games.'
The Scottish Government defended the policy, stating: 'Our approach focuses on de-escalation and addressing root causes of behaviour while maintaining safe learning environments.'
