Before the implementation of relational practice, we used a lot of traditional practices for dealing with behaviour, such as yellow and red cards, that felt out of date for today’s children. We recognised we were not consistently meeting the needs of our children. I could see how each class teacher was different in how they dealt with behaviour, so we needed refresh. I really wanted to address behaviour by improving relationships across the school community.

 

We decided that we wanted to implement a consistent plan across school. We wanted to embed a strategy that fits with today’s children and is rooted in empathy and restoration.

We are really happy with how successful the changes have been. We have a diverse range of personalities and opinions amongst our staff when it comes to approaching behaviour. Whilst there are still things we would like to tighten up on, I believe any one visiting our school would see our behaviour strategy based on Paul’s ideas. We promote being ‘Big on Heart, Strong on Boundaries’.

 

Initially, it was bit of a challenge to get all staff on board, as some have different views on how to tackle behaviour. We also found it hard to drip feed the training as I am naturally someone who likes to get everything fixed straight away. However, taking things slowly is definitely the best approach with this.

 

We have many practices embedded. Now, we just need to work on the consistency side of things. We also want to continue to develop approaches for individual, more complex children.

 

Paul’s approaches have worked. Paul’s approaches produce happier, calmer schools fostered on stronger relationships. Paul’s approaches are line with what Ofsted expect to see in school, so for us it is a ‘no brainer’.

 

We have enjoyed the staff CPD videos and parents have appreciated the workshops.