Restorative Conversations

At Our Lady of the Southern Cross, we are starting to implement restorative conversations across the school. Restorative conversations is an evidence-based practise that is used in many schools to manage and resolve conflicts as they occur. The process supports students to see a situation from another’s perspective. They are encouraged to reflect on their behaviour that contributed to the situation. All students reflect upon the impact that their behaviour may have had on themselves and the people around them. Together a solution is agreed upon with a possible review in the future.

Currently these conversations have been supported either by myself and/or an Assistant Principal. It is emphasised to students that nobody is in trouble and in these conversations, students are congratulated for owning their behaviour or mistakes. As parents, I hope that you can see the power that these conversations can have for students. Restorative conversations will support the development of empathy, accountability and problem solving.

Please find below the links to videos that are introducing restorative conversations and an example of a restorative conversation within a school setting.

Introduction to restorative practices.

Example of restorative conversation

Katrina Ballantyne

College Counsellor