All student wellbeing practices and processes at St Edmund’s College are guided by the Edmund Rice tradition which “provides pastoral care that nurtures the dignity of each person as uniquely reflecting the image of God.” (Charter for Catholic Schools in the Edmund Rice Tradition, EREA)
Our response to all inappropriate behaviour is guided by Restorative Practice. When inappropriate behaviour has occurred and discussion with and between students is required, we respond using Restorative Practice principles. These principles ask students to recognise and name behaviours, as well as helping them become aware of the impact their action has had on others. Using the reflection questions below, we give students the opportunity to consider all sides of a situation. Restorative Practices allow us to focus on the harms of wrongdoing more than the broken rules, equally support those harmed and the rule-breakers and provide opportunities for dialogue between those harmed and the rule-breakers, as appropriate.
Restorative Practice Reflection Questions
When things go wrong:
- What happened?
- What were you thinking at the time?
- What have you thought about since?
- Who has been affected by what you have done? In what way?
- What do you think you need to do to make things right?
When someone has been hurt:
- What did you think when you realised what had happened?
- What impact has this incident had on you and others?
- What has been the hardest thing for you?
- What do you think needs to happen to make things right?
When used effectively, these practices offer students real power to respond to instances where things have gone wrong. They are able to see the impact of their behaviour in a supportive and nurturing way, as well as contribute meaningfully to the repair of relationships.
Anna Blore
Head of O’Brien House