Restorative Practices – An Introduction

Participants will be given the opportunity to practice the language of RP and apply it to situations in their rooms, corridors or the playground. Restorative schools value relationships that create, repair or restore, a strong sense of community. This community responds promptly to issues and problems that arise in the classroom, yard, car park or in the staffroom. This community adheres to high levels of achievement, behaviour and support. Relationship based education, combined with Restorative Practices, ensures that students and staff produce their best. Schools that employ these practices are safe and happy places. In restorative schools, all members set goals and devise methods to achieve them. When relationships are harmed the community commits to repairing them. Schools that embrace restorative principals are pro-active. The safe and calm environment encourages participation and collaboration. Conversations, at all levels, are honest and constructive which in turn encourage flourishing in individuals and the collective.

Program Outline:
• Restorative Practices Philosophy – the why and how of working ‘with’.
• Language of Relationship Restoration and Reparation – restorative conversations for individuals, small and large groups.
• Creating a Positive Learning Environment – using circles.