restorative practice

Several of the initiatives at Carr Manor Community School are focused on building and maintaining strong relationships.

One way in which we build and maintain those relationships is through restorative practice.

We have been embedding and developing relational practices for over fourteen years, and restorative practices for over eight years. We have a high number of pupils in school who are trained as ‘restorative practice’ representatives.

This means they have received specific training on how to facilitate restorative conversations. These representatives put these skills into practice with their peers by supporting self-regulation, facilitating repair, encouraging problem solving, creating connections and building relationships.

“Pupils show remarkable conduct, respect and enthusiasm for learning. Clear routines, positive reinforcement and a restorative approach help to foster a calm and structured environment.”

Ofsted 2025

Restorative practice ensures that every voice in school is heard. It encourages pupils to treat others with respect and to understand why relationships are so important.

Our restorative approach helps pupils:
  • Understand how their actions can affect others
  • Develop characteristics they can use in and out of school
  • Understand themselves and each other better
  • Learn why it’s important to see another person’s point of view
  • See that it’s OK to make mistakes
  • Learn how to move through conflict creatively

Restorative practice ensures we prioritise equity over equality. We focus on challenging teaching and learning to improve performance and outcomes, alongside a high level of support to pupils and staff.

The culture of belonging that has emerged has had a significant impact on both the wellbeing of staff and pupils in our school. This is because everyone is valued and listened to.

Conversations based on these principles means that everyone is aware of what is expected and what is acceptable, as well as what can be done to resolve any difficulties.

Since our use of restorative practice, attendance has increased and the number of exclusions has fallen. We see this as a result of the stronger relationships forged.

Immersion experiences

We often hold Restorative Practice Immersion Days, where visitors from other schools and organisations can see first hand how restorative practice works in our school. For further information, visit our Support Services website.