This briefing shows that schools which succeed in engaging children and improving behaviour for the long term respond to their pupils’ needs by offering an authoritative approach to discipline which addresses the underlying causes of bad behaviour, which often lie in problems at home. Although providing support for pupils and their families requires initial investment, early intervention offers value for money by improving the long-term outcomes for those children most in need of support. Section one reviews the evidence on effective approaches to improving behaviour and discipline in school, drawing on international research about authoritative discipline models in school which help children regulate their own behaviour. It then draws on findings from Ofsted inspection data which shows the importance of effective care, guidance and support in schools. Section two provides evidence about what works when addressing the underlying causes of poor behaviour, based on information about two innovative Barnardo’s services working with clusters of schools in the east of England The analysis that follows also shows examples of other early intervention projects that are successfully used by schools. Barnardo’s frequently works in partnership with other providers to ensure an integrated package of support for the child. The concluding section draws together the evidence and analysis to make recommendations for the Government and Ofsted.