Our focus in schools has fortunately shifted to a less punitive approach, with an emphasis on modelling good behaviour, and learning from small mistakes in order to avoid the bigger ones. This is coupled with a clearer explanation of why certain behaviour is either undesirable or unacceptable, and our pupils therefore achieve a better understanding of how to act in different situations. Our restorative approach may take longer to implement than a simple ‘telling off’, but the longer-term gains are obvious when a child determines to act in a certain way, not because they’ve been told to do so, but because they genuinely recognise that they can be more considerate – and that it’s the right and moral thing to do. It becomes a ‘virtuous circle’ where good behaviour is celebrated as the norm, and where both pupils and staff can learn and work in a calm and supportive atmosphere.

Our ‘Behaviour, Rewards and Sanctions’ policy begins thus:

Our behaviour policy sets out our high standards of expected behaviour based on respect for other people, dignity and kindness. It is designed to enable us to promote and maintain a calm, safe and caring environment.

The policy is underpinned by our school ethos and linked to our school values, as well as to pupils’ rights and responsibilities. It lists desirable behaviour, beginning with:

• Saying ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’
• Treating others as you would like to be treated yourself
• Showing common courtesy, such as opening/holding doors for others or helping to carry someone’s bag if required

We tend not to reward good behaviour, as we should expect it as a norm, but there are plenty of ways in which we celebrate effort, progress and achievement, as well as noticing the improvements which pupils make. The greatest reward is often a quiet word of gratitude, encouragement or praise.

As we work in partnership with parents, I am grateful to you for sharing our values, for setting and explaining appropriate parameters in the home environment, for encouraging common courtesy, and for giving praise wherever it is due.

Best wishes,

John Watson
Headmaster and Principal