Gove: Teachers should not be afraid to 'get tough'

Writing lines is tedious, monotonous, boring - and a perfect punishment for bad behaviour. Children need to learn the importance of strong discipline and to understand that misbehaving at school has consequences.

We are making crystal clear to teachers that telling children to write lines is an entirely appropriate punishment.

These new guidelines will give teachers the confidence to be tougher on bad behaviour and ensure every child has the chance to learn in a controlled, orderly environment.