WMS is proud to share the impact of a project delivered with funding from Wandsworth Council’s Violence Reduction Unit.
In just five weeks, we worked with 950 pupils across five schools and two specialist settings, combining whole-cohort assemblies with targeted intervention for the most at-risk students. Based on available data:
- 81% of participants were from ethnic minority backgrounds
- 50% were eligible for Pupil Premium
- 34% were on the SEN register
- 16% had persistent or near-persistent absence
- 8% were supported by an EHCP
This is a cohort at high risk of exclusion and involvement in conflict, and often the hardest to engage.
Assemblies: reaching large numbers, with immediate impact
We delivered 15 anger management assemblies to 940 students, equipping them with practical tools to stay calm and respond differently in conflict. Feedback shows that participants are already applying these skills in real-life situations:
“Earlier today I got into trouble with my teacher and felt really angry, but I remembered the techniques from the workshop and managed to calm myself down and handle the situation better.”
Year 8 student (via SLT)
“I was very impressed with the tips students were able to recall… to support them with managing their anger and avoiding potential conflict.”
Teacher
Targeted support: working with those most at risk
Alongside assemblies, we delivered Reflect workshops for pupils at a Wandsworth PRU and youth club. These were young people facing significant challenges:
- 100% had a history of sanctions
- 75% had previously been suspended
Through small-group, games-based sessions, participants reflected on their behaviour and learnt practical ways to respond to conflict using non-violent communication.
According to PRU staff, 83% of participants showed improvements in behaviour.
“I’ve learnt not to use violence all the time.”
“Swearing doesn’t always get you everything.”
Reducing escalation and anti-social behaviour
Across assemblies and workshops, both young people and staff reported using the tools to manage emotions and avoid conflict:
“…use at school to help myself not get into trouble with teachers.”
“When I’m triggered, I can let others have a win-win.”
“When you get angry, stop and think to understand what’s happened.”
“It was useful for students to understand how they can be more reflective as well as support others in managing their feelings.”
Nick Bull, Senior Deputy Principal, Burntwood School
Bring this to your school
At WMS, we combine:
- Assemblies — reaching large groups with practical, memorable tools
- Targeted workshops — supporting those most at risk in small groups
- Staff training on de-escalation and behaviour
to create a lasting impact. Our sessions are drama- and games-based, making them engaging and accessible, including for pupils with additional needs.
If you’re looking for a violence reduction intervention for your school, PRU or youth club, please get in touch.
