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Restorative Approaches in Schools
Restorative approaches exemplify particular values, skills and practices which offer opportunities to reduce bullying, nurture positive relationships and repair relationships when harm has been caused. More positive relationships between all members of the school community can raise attainment levels and reduce problems with misbehaviour.
Unresolved conflict has repercussions both on individual learning and damages the community as a whole. A restorative approach is designed to make sure that those involved in a conflict own the solution. The process of asking restorative questions puts the onus for problem solving where it belongs; between the two or more people involved.
“Two of our boys vandalised a primary school last week. Conferences were used to bring the boys face-to-face with staff from the school, during which apologies were made and reparation agreed. This is very powerful”
Head teacher, secondary school
Taken from the National Evaluation of the Restorative Justice in Schools Programme 2004
Re:solutions First is working with the Behaviour Improvement Programme (BIP) coordinators and the Local Authority Diversity and Inclusion team to introduce restorative approaches in Manchester schools. A ‘Guide for Schools’ which gives information and step by step suggestions on how to be a ‘restorative school’ has been written and is available by ringing 0161 272 6464.
For further information on Restorative Approaches, see:
www.iirp.org
The website for the International Institute for Restorative Practices
www.restorativejustice.org.uk
The website for the UK Restorative Justice Consortium
www.teachers.tv
Restorative Justice videos and resources to view and download
Training
Resolutions First offers training in restorative approaches. Please visit the training page for more details.
Why Restorative Approaches?
We believe that Restorative Approaches are a good way of handling relationships in schools because:
- It is based on an understanding of how people work
Restorative Approaches are grounded in ancient and traditional ways of addressing wrongdoing. Yet it is also informed by the modern fields of psychology, sociology, education, and organizational behaviour.
- It addresses peoples’ needs
Restorative Approaches address one of the central challenges of contemporary education: that young people live in increasingly disconnected societies, with often far less family and community support than they need to be their best.
- It provides an overarching framework for other initiatives
With an emphasis on nurturing, strengthening and repairing relationships, Restorative Approaches provide a framework that ties many popular interventions together. RA give a broad based value system to underpin whole-school culture change.
- It works!
Restorative Approaches include a range of highly effective practices and processes to address student (and adult) behaviour. These practices and processes have the relatively unique ability to simultaneously hold people accountable, support those harmed by misbehaviour, develop empathy in those who misbehave, and strengthen the school community by connecting people. A far cry from the counterproductive, "Zero Tolerance" approach to discipline.
(adapted from ‘The School Mediator’ Ed: Prof Richard Cohen)
Testimonials from people who have attended our Restorative Approaches training:
“I am inspired and now am confident to have a go at facilitating a conference”
Our Lady’s Sports College
“The best course I’ve attended, with the right mix of practical and theoretical activities; and this from a determined ‘no role play’ participant!”
North Manchester High School for Boys
“Brilliant course! Excellent opportunities to share and learn in a very warm atmosphere”
St Matthews RC High School
“A great course - intense and rewarding”
Abraham Moss High School
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