At Loxdale Primary School, we believe that strong relationships are the foundation of a happy and successful learning environment. That’s why we use restorative practice to help resolve any issues with behaviour or friendships in a positive and respectful way. Instead of focusing on blame or punishment, restorative conversations give children the chance to talk about what happened, understand how their actions affected others, and work together to make things right. This relational approach helps children develop empathy, responsibility, and problem-solving skills. It also creates a caring school community where everyone feels valued and supported. Alongside this, we follow trauma-informed principles to ensure that every child feels safe and understood, especially if they have faced challenges or adversity. By combining restorative and trauma-informed approaches, we help children build resilience, develop positive mental health, and strengthen their overall wellbeing.
Parents can support this at home by encouraging open conversations, helping children think about how their actions affect others, and promoting kindness and respect in everyday situations. Please feel free to following the ‘Story telling’ journey poster that we use in school, to open up restorative discussions at home.
Our Commitment to Relationships & Trauma-Informed Practice
At Loxdale Primary School we are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for every child. Our approach is grounded in leading research on trauma-informed practice and the power of relationships. We draw inspiration from the work of many renowned professionals, including:
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Dr. Karen Treisman – Emphasizing empathy, connection, and understanding in every interaction.
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Dr. Bruce Perry – Highlighting that healing and resilience come through healthy, trusting relationships.
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Paul Dix – Focusing on behaviour and relational practice in schools and the adult in every environment (home/ school) needs to lead the change.
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Michael Rutter - Viewing resilience as a dynamic process allowing individuals to achieve positive outcomes despite challenges
These principles guide how we create safe, supportive environments where children feel valued, understood, and connected. We encourage parents and carers to explore these approaches too, as they play a vital role in building resilience and fostering emotional wellbeing at home.
Together, we can ensure that every child thrives, through empathy, consistency, and the power of relationships.