Our Approach

Helping each student build confidence, responsibility and a sense of belonging.

Every aspect of life at The Write Time is shaped by William Glasser’s Choice Theory, creating an environment where students feel safe, valued and empowered to succeed.


Choice theory approach - Student engages with a tactile educational board in a school hallway. | SEN Schools

What Is Choice Theory?

At The Write Time, our approach is inspired by Dr. William Glasser’s Choice Theory, which recognises that all behaviour is driven by five basic human needs. By understanding these needs, we help students develop positive relationships, make responsible choices and become more engaged in their learning and personal development.

Every behaviour is driven by five basic human needs

Survival

Freedom

Love & Belonging

Fun

Power

Choice Theory Is How We Work

It’s how we work together every day.

From classroom learning to mentoring conversations, every interaction is guided by respect, positive relationships and helping students recognise the choices they have to shape their own future.

A teacher discusses a workbook with a student in a classroom setting. | SEN Schools
Teenager in a white shirt looks at their reflection in a mirror. The background is blue-toned with various images and text. | SEN Schools

Choice Theory in Practice

When students feel safe, connected and understood, they’re more likely to engage in learning, build positive relationships and develop the confidence to make successful choices, both in school and beyond.


Taking Responsibility

Students learn to recognise the choices they make and understand how those choices influence their learning, relationships and future.

Understanding Behaviour

We see behaviour as communication. Rather than asking “What’s wrong with this student?” we ask What need is this behaviour trying to meet?”

Building Positive Relationships

Strong relationships sit at the heart of everything we do. Staff encourage caring habits, respectful communication and mutual trust.

Developing a Positive Future

Every student is supported to build confidence, resilience and a personal vision for success, whatever that looks like for them.

What You’ll See Every Day

  • Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning.

  • Staff build relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

  • We seek to understand behaviour before deciding how best to respond.

  • Students are supported to solve problems rather than simply receive consequences.

  • Every young person is encouraged to recognise their strengths and celebrate success.
Two people sitting in a room, focused on a notebook. A whiteboard behind them reads "Choice Theory = Control Connections Competence. | SEN Schools

Developing Personal and Social Skills

Developing personal and social skills is just as important as academic progress. Through mentoring, coaching and everyday experiences, students build confidence, resilience and the practical skills they need to succeed both in school and beyond.

The Write Time School employs full-time Outreach Development Tutors (ODTs) to support students’ positive behaviour and personal growth. Each student is assigned an ODT and follows a Personal Development Plan, setting goals based on 8 key skills, including Positive behaviour, time management, critical thinking, effort, teamwork, leadership, negotiation and communication.

“The Write Time provides students with the opportunity to improve their life chances and have a positive future.”

Matrix

Our aim is simple

To create a school where every young person feels they belong, believes in their own potential and leaves with the confidence, qualifications and life skills to succeed beyond The Write Time.