Every behaviour tells a story and before it becomes a challenge, it is a message waiting to be understood.
This session reframes behaviour not as something to fix or control, but as meaningful communication shaped by development, emotion, relationships and context. When we slow down, stay curious and respond consistently, behaviour becomes an opportunity to teach, connect and protect, not just physically intervene.
Grounded in values-driven practice, this session explores how positive behaviour support is built through safe, relational responses rather than reactive systems. Participants will reflect on the adult role in co-regulation, examine the use of safe and appropriate touch, and practise de-escalation strategies that reduce risk and preserve dignity.
The session also introduces the core principles of Team Teach, with a clear emphasis on restraint avoidance, proactive planning and the use of least-intrusive responses, ensuring safety for children and adults while keeping relationships intact.
This is a practical, reflective session for educators who want to move beyond compliance-based behaviour management and build calmer, safer environments where children feel understood, supported and able to succeed.
Chris Timms is Deputy Head (Early Years) at Dulwich College Singapore, where he leads on teaching and learning, assessment, safeguarding and professional learning. He works across school and community to build positive cultures rooted in trust, relationships and psychological safety, with a strong focus on evidence-informed practice and leadership that puts children first. Chris has been at the College for nine years with his wife, Jessica, and their three children, all of whom are part of the Dulwich community. Prior to Singapore, he was a Deputy Headteacher, advisor and Acting Headteacher in Chester, England, and has over 25 years’ experience in education.
