We know that effective behaviour management underpins successful teaching and learning. When a child faces challenges, they can sometimes misbehave or become difficult to manage.  At The Downley School we know that behaviour is communication, and we manage the needs of our pupils through a range of ways. 

All our staff have been trained in the 'Step On' behaviour strategies. Step On is based on sound evidenced based principles which promote positive behaviour strategies such as consistency, de-escalation, behaviour analysis and differentiated planning.  Pupils displaying challenging behaviours have Positive Intervention Plans (PIP) to support behaviours and regulate a consistent positive approach in school. 

The whole school follows a system of rewards and consequences. Praise is used to motivate and encourage pupils and at the same time, pupils are aware of the range of interventions and consequences that could be applied if they display behaviour that challenges or harms.

We have a mentoring system where the children work together to gain resolution through the restorative justice system. This is run by the Class Teacher/FSW/SENDco to support the children speaking to each other to resolve conflict. This is a proven system to giving the children ownership of behaviour, ability to hear the views of others, the value of empathy, deeper/historical issues can be dealt with that may be manifesting in behaviours and the understanding of the consequences of the choices they make. This system is about empowering the children to take ownership and responsibility for the decisions they make and not relying on adults or having them become the resolvers.

We have effective online school monitoring system which ensure  that it is the responsibility of all to deal with behaviours quickly and effectively.  We are able to identify patterns of behaviour and/or deterioration of behaviours. It also clearly shows key individuals to prevent bullying. The system links children and families and is monitored every two weeks.

If you experience any issues with behaviour please see the class teacher. If it is deemed a persistent and extreme behaviour, the Deputy Headteacher, Mrs Perry can be consulted.  

Learning behaviours are also important to us. We endeavour to make every lesson fun and exciting so that the children are engaged and on task. We believe that learning is a two-way process and by us providing a quality experience the children must give it their undivided attention so that no learning opportunities are lost. We monitor this through regular monitoring of teachers and assessment. We also talk to the children to gain their views. 

We also appreciate the part that home lives and parents/carers have within this and will always seek to work with you on areas of the children's interest and jointly on how we can all improve. We encourage parents to share their experiences and communicate any changes in circumstances which may impact on our children's behaviour. We encourage a strong and joint approach in developing positive behaviours. 

'Beneath every behaviour there is a feeling.

And beneath each feeling is a need.

And when we meet that need rather than focus on the behaviour,

we begin to deal with the cause, not the symptom'