Strategies to Ensure the Effective Implementation of Learner Discipline Policies: A Case of 4 South African Secondary Schools

Abstract

The study examined the implementation of learner discipline policies in four secondary schools in the Graaff Reinet district. It is located in the interpretivist paradigm and employed the triangulation design to collect data. Four schools and participants in the study were purposively sampled. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were the main instruments used for data collection. Data revealed that although schools used different strategies to implement learner discipline policies, such as, Code of Conduct, Disciplinary hearing, Safety and Security Committee, Educators, Corporal Punishment, Alternative methods to Corporal Punishment, there were a number of limitations in implementing policies to maintain learner discipline. To address disciplinary problems, the study has the following key recommendations Policies should be crafted by all stakeholders for ownership and there should be collaboration in implementation of those policies.. The Code of Conduct should be issued to all learners at the school at the beginning of the year in the language of preference, with school rules. Educators should engage the Department of Education to conduct workshops in building capacity of educators to maintain learner discipline. Schools should establish partnerships with other sister Departments such as SAPS, Social Development, Correctional Services, Health to, maintain learner discipline.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n23p1578