Hold a lesson called "Taking Responsibility". Tell the kids what this means and how it affects them. It is important that children learn this concept from an early age, so repeat this type of session regularly to ensure that the idea becomes familiar.
Support the theory of responsibility by giving kids in the class responsibilities -- such as sorting, recycling, tidying up loose books or photocopying documents. Ask them to perform these tasks independently so they can feel a sense of achievement and pride.
Grow small plants or vegetables in a vegetable patch on school premises, or in flower boxes around the classroom. Allocate a container to every three or four pupils and explain they are responsible for the maintenance, care and growth of the plants.
Reward good behavior and actions with praise. This reinforces positive attitudes rather than dwelling on negative ones. For example, if a child is pushed down, acknowledge the child who took responsibility and went for help. Do not shout at the child who pushed the other one over; instead, emphasize the positive actions of the helper.
Meet with the children's parents to explain that they need to take a proactive approach in supporting the school's teaching of responsibility. This means giving kids responsibility at home and creating an environment where they are expected to take responsibility for their actions.