Example teacher training dissertation topic 9:

Instigating ‘circle time’ within the secondary curriculum: A practice-based review.

Within the primary school-day ‘circle time’ is acknowledged to play an important part in both children’s psychological development and general well-being. With the pressure of public examinations such ‘me’ time is not included within the secondary school day. This dissertation, using two classes of Year 9 pupils at an inner-city comprehensive in Solihull as a case study, reintroduces ‘circle time’ (as a ten-minute, form-based activity on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons) and charts the responses of students during a nine-week observation period. This is a piece of research the results of which have implications for both accepted pedagogy within the secondary school as issues pertaining to adolescent well-being and the structure of the school day.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Mosley, J. (2002). Important issues relating to the promotion of positive behaviour and self-esteem in secondary schools. Trowbridge: Positive Press.
• Smith, C. (2003). More circle time for secondary schools. London: Lucky Duck (SAGE).
• White, M. (1999). Magic circles: Building self-esteem through circle time. London: Lucky Duck (SAGE).