Although behaviour around our school is extremely good, sometimes children make the wrong choices—this is all part of normal child development.

At Parkview Primary School, we use restorative practice to address these wrong choices when they arise. Instead of focusing solely on punishment, this approach enables the children to reflect on their actions, take accountability and think about how they are going to repair any harm they have caused.

Multiple studies show that this approach reduces behaviour incidents in schools. Schools who use this method report fewer disruptions, lower rates of exclusion, and a drop in bullying. They also show that restorative practice builds empathy and encourages positive interactions between students, teachers, and wider school staff. Students who engage in this practice feel more connected to their school, safer within it, and more engaged in their learning. The overall climate for learning improves.