Towards restorative justice

The application of sanctions at Breckenbrough is a careful balancing act. On the one hand there has to be "consequences" for unacceptable behaviour and justice has to be seen to be done. On the other we want pupils to be responsible for their own behaviour.

There is a danger that we are drawn towards the former and feel the need to punish. However we have found that punishing our pupils is more likely to increase angers and not address issues.

The primary motive for applying a sanction is to ensure the behaviour of the boy improves. For this reason counselling or talking to the boys forms the basis of the policy. Staff are encouraged to talk through a problem with a pupil and not to apply a sanction unless it is absolutely necessary and only after it has been carefully explained to the pupil the reasons for the sanction and the expectation of the improved behaviour.

It is essential that sanctions are not applied in a manner that will cause further emotional damage and develop long term alienation to individuals and the school. Sanctions are therefore used sparingly, the emphasis is for the pupils to control themselves and conform to the School's Code of Behaviour.