Restorative Justice Practices (RJP)

Restorative justice represents a philosophy which acknowledges that when a person does harm to another person they also harm themselves and the whole community. Justice in a school setting views inappropriate behaviour as harm to relationships within the school community rather than school rule breaking. This means the harm done to people and relationships.

Restorative practices are innovative ways to build caring communities whilst not accepting harmful behaviour. In other words, supporting people taking responsibility for their actions and repair any harm that has been done.

Restorative practices recognise and encourage the contributions that staff, parents, carers and the community make in promoting great relationships that enable better behaviour and better learning at school. They involve all those affected by the conflict to find a way forward, reducing anger and resentments.

Restorative practices help our school by:

• Making it a safer, happier place where each child’s talents can be recognised and celebrated.
• Raising attendance.
• Reducing and preventing bullying behaviours.
• Providing greater opportunities for support and mediation when conflicts occur.