S032 Interrupt & Redirect
Redirect to the routine (not the person)
Aim (what it achieves)
Depersonalise correction by anchoring it to a shared routine.
When to use
Any time a student argues or personalises the correction.
How to use (steps)
State the routine expectation neutrally and repeat it (broken record if needed).
Teacher language (examples)
“In this room we listen in silence when someone is speaking.”
Top tips (makes it work)
Use ‘we’ language; keep tone calm; move on quickly.
Common pitfalls
Using ‘you always’; moralising; sarcasm.
SEND/PP considerations
Supports students with fragile self-concept; reduces ‘attack’ feeling.
Useful for these SEND needs
Relevant SEND Needs
Why this strategy helps
- Uses low-arousal redirection to protect dignity.
- Supports regulation and relational safety.
- Clarifies language and participation pathways.
Universal SEND-friendly: Yes
SEND-targeted: No
Tags
Sources
Used in
Common Behaviour Issues (Behaviour Hub)
- Interrupt & Redirect Slow starts / dawdling transitions
- Interrupt & Redirect Disorganisation / missing equipment / dead time
Related strategies
S019 Interrupt & Redirect
Least invasive intervention ladder
Match the smallest effective response to the behaviour.
S021 Interrupt & Redirect
Take-up time (instruction, then step away)
Increase compliance by removing the ‘audience’ and pressure.
S022 Interrupt & Redirect
Positive framing (correct while staying on their side)
Hold the boundary while preserving relationship and motivation.
S023 Interrupt & Redirect
Broken record (don’t debate)
Prevent escalation by refusing the argument loop.
S025 Interrupt & Redirect
Micro-choice (bounded options)
Prevent escalation by giving controlled choice without lowering expectations.
S031 Interrupt & Redirect
Private correction (quiet ‘side script’)
Correct behaviour without creating a public confrontation.