A PARENT pressure group has welcomed plans to hold a teacher training conference in York advocating a "zero tolerance" approach to school discipline.

Nick Sneaton, spokesman for the Campaign for Real Education representing parents and teachers in York, said most parents want to see clear actions against bad behaviour.

His comments came after teachers from across York and North Yorkshire were invited to a Discipline With Dignity cnference at the Royal York Hotel, in York, on February 4, based on the initiative launched in New York alongside the zero tolerance policy for New York police.

Organizer David Trigg said the course aimed to equip teachers with the skills and techniques necessary, so they spend less time dealing with behavioural problems and more time on positive interactions with students so teaching and learning is enhanced.

Mr Triggs is principal of Greensward College in Hockley, Essex, executive principal at Thamesbridge College, in Reading, and consultant principal at Greig City Academy, in Haringey, London.

The aim of the course is about getting back to old- fashioned values, setting pupils clear guidelines and sticking to them.

Mr Triggs said: "If a student comes to a lesson without a pen, they should be asked why, told not to do it again and then, if they do, given detention or lines and not just given another pen and told to sit down, which is so often the case these days."

Mr Sneaton said: "Most parents we come across think its vital teachers have some clear sanctions against bad behaviour and it's important children learn that their actions have consequences."

The course costs £223.25 and is open to teachers of children from nursery to college age from 10am - 4pm.

To apply contact administration@darwinconferences.net.

Updated: 09:29 Wednesday, January 12, 2005