At Karingal Primary School, Restorative Practices are central to the way we build, maintain and repair relationships across our school community.
We believe that positive, respectful relationships are the foundation of a safe, inclusive and engaging learning environment. Restorative Practices support this by focusing on connection, understanding and accountability. Rather than simply applying consequences, this approach helps students understand the impact of their actions, take responsibility, and repair harm in a meaningful and supported way.
Restorative Practices are implemented as a whole-school approach. They are used proactively to build strong relationships and a sense of belonging, and responsively when challenges or conflict arise. In classrooms, staff use strategies such as circle discussions, check-ins, shared expectations and guided conversations to strengthen student voice, promote respect and create a positive learning culture.
When harm or conflict occurs, students are supported through structured restorative conversations. These conversations encourage reflection, empathy and problem solving, helping students to understand what has happened, who has been affected and what needs to be done to move forward positively.
Restorative questions may include:
When something has gone wrong:
- What happened?
- What were you thinking at the time?
- What have you thought about since?
- Who has been affected by what happened?
- What do you need to do to make things right?
When someone has been harmed:
- What did you think when you realised what had happened?
- How has this affected you and others?
- What has been the hardest thing for you?
- What do you think needs to happen to make things right?
Through this process, students are supported to:
- understand the impact of their words and actions
- take responsibility in a safe and respectful way
- listen to and value the perspectives of others
- repair relationships after conflict
- develop empathy, resilience and problem-solving skills
Restorative Practices work alongside our school expectations and wellbeing processes. They ensure that behaviour is addressed in a way that promotes learning, accountability and positive future choices.
This approach also strengthens our commitment to student wellbeing and the Child Safe Standards, ensuring that every student feels heard, respected and supported, particularly when harm or conflict occurs.
All staff are trained in restorative approaches and model respectful communication in their daily interactions. We also value the role of families as partners in supporting student wellbeing and may involve them in restorative processes where appropriate.
Through Restorative Practices, we aim to develop not only respectful behaviour, but thoughtful, empathetic and responsible young people who are equipped to contribute positively to their community.