Always have rules and guidelines to classroom behaviour, management, and general practice. Without them, you will run the risk of being ill prepared to handle small issues before they become big ones. Because let's face it, issues always escalate when left unaddressed. If a student thinks they can pick their nose and get away with it, then the behaviour won't be stopped. If the behaviour isn't stopped it will show other students that they too have the opportunity and the power, to pick their noses without consequences which will lead to other issues such as bogeys on the furnishings. Now let's just say, for the sake of your understanding and my sanity, that the behaviour was not nose picking, say it was something far less desirable, like the consistent disrespect of talking whilst you're giving instructions or leading a class discussion. Each teacher has their own set of rules, but one that is a must is, respect others while they're talking. Meaning do not interrupt, giggle and whisper to the person next to you or blatantly start your own conversation. This, is one such behaviour which needs to be nipped in the butt from the very beginning. It's important to set your boundaries, make your rules clear but above all, be consistent. If you are inconsistent students may feel hard done by or they will feel as if they are getting to you – and there will be times when they will get to you – the point is to remain calm and in control. If you relinquish that control, then you may as well hand in your resignation, because life will be hell. Not that I condone failure or cowardice.

Do not use your biggest weapons first up. Always start with your smallest weapons or tools for managing the behaviour or non-compliance. Talk to experienced staff members or mentors, discuss strategies with your line manager or department head, see if your school has any particular behaviour management strategies or support resources in place, and use them.

There are a number of tactics you could employ, to enforce and maintain your classroom rules and guidelines, but this will come in a later chapter. Remember, baby steps.