"They Don't Behave for Me" is a guide for teachers and leaders in secondary schools to handling challenging behaviour. Drawing on his own experiences, author Sam Strickland presents 50 common situations that teachers are likely to encounter throughout their careers, ranging from classroom disruption and rudeness to bullying and fights. The publisher adds that it also covers the lack of an overall behaviour strategy at school level.
One of the strengths of this book lies in its organisation. Sam breaks each scenario into three sections: an outline of the issue, immediate steps to take, and a set of follow-up actions. This structure allows teachers to quickly grasp the problem and find actionable strategies to implement.
Sam's intention to guide teachers in maintaining a positive approach to behavioural management is evident throughout the book. Sam emphasises the importance of not condoning poor behaviour while simultaneously acknowledging the need for teachers to find answers and resolutions when things go wrong. He encourages teachers to develop their own strategies for managing challenging behaviour. The scenarios are relatable and reflect the realities teachers face day to day.
I highly recommend "They Don't Behave for Me" to teachers and leaders in secondary schools. Whether you are an ECT student or an experienced professional, this book offers actionable strategies for managing behavioural challenges.
Who it is for
Secondary teachers, including early career teachers, and, as the publisher notes, teachers moving into middle and senior leadership who need to support colleagues with behaviour. The book's scenarios sit inside your school's own behaviour policy; for the legal framework in England, see the DfE's behaviour in schools guidance.
About the book
- Author: Sam (Samuel) Strickland, who draws on his own experience in schools.
- Full title: They Don't Behave for Me: 50 classroom behaviour scenarios to support teachers.
- Publisher: John Catt (Hachette). Paperback published 9 June 2023, ISBN 9781398388666; ebook ISBN 9781036001421.
Source: publisher listing on Hachette UK, checked 13 October 2026.
