Using restorative practice to manage behaviour

Understand what restorative approaches to behaviour are, the potential benefits of using them and how to make the most effective use of them in your school.

Last reviewed on 3 November 2021
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 5583
Contents
  1. Restorative practice is a whole-school approach to behaviour management
  2. Why use a restorative approach?
  3. Fully embed restorative practice for best results
  4. In practice

Restorative practice is a whole-school approach to behaviour management

Restorative approaches focus on resolving conflict and repairing harm by talking to everyone involved, getting them to explain their feelings and reasons for behaving the way they are.

You can use restorative practice for any behaviour incident, although it's most commonly used as an anti-bullying strategy.

By asking a set of questions, the goal is to reach a clear understanding of everyone’s feelings, and find a resolution that everyone can agree to.

You can see examples of the sort of questions you might ask, and the underlying principles, in guidance from Norfolk County Council.

There’s less of a focus on punishment and sanctions when you use restorative practice. 

Why use a restorative approach?

The same study found restorative practice to

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