Retreat

Our children took part in a 'podcast' recently - check out the links and click on Need to Chill Out.

Retreat to a Haven (TESS article) www.tes.co.uk/article.aspx?storycode=6033513

Podcast (Enquire Website) www.enquire.org.uk/yp/podcasts.php

Blog interview (Enquire Website) Need to chill out?

Pupils at Niddrie Mill Primary head to the RETREAT.
www.enquire.org.uk/youngpeople/wordpress/?p=826

The work of the RETREAT was recently highlighted as an example of good practice in a report by ' HM Inspectorate of Education' on 22nd December 2009. This was also acknowledged in an article in the 'Times Educational Supplement Newspaper' on 14th January 2010 and on April 2nd 2010.

In recognition of this work, the school's Behaviour Support Teacher was invited
to attend the Royal Garden Party at the Palace of Holyrood House, which was
hosted by Her Majesty the Queen.

The RETREAT is a room which has been thoughtfully designed to offer a calm, safe, welcoming and purposeful, sensory environment. This has been achieved through the creative use of resources such as soothing music, cushions, quiet corner and displays. Managed by the Behaviour Support Teacher, it has been described as being "full of positive energy".

It provides a haven within school, where children and their families can access support and guidance with a wide variety of identified behaviour needs. Pupils regularly self refer and it is a room that everyone within school knows about and respects and such has been its success that this initiative has been carried over into the new and still developing MINI-RETREAT within the infant area.

The work undertaken by the Behaviour Support Teacher and the principles applied, permeate throughout the school, the playground, pupils' homes and into the wider community. Close links with local police, Place 2be, other professionals and voluntary organisations are vital to overall success when supporting children and further strengthens our 'team around the child' approach.

A wide range of ever evolving strategies such as citizenship awards, positive behaviour challenges, worth noting books, visual supports, customised stickers, PAV (pupils against violence) group, playground pals, early morning clubs and peer mentoring are all used to raise self esteem and give guidance and support, with understanding and managing behaviour.

The work within the RETREAT strengthens the school's positive approach to behaviour and a commitment to health and well being and underpins it's values of ambition, respect, perseverance and belonging.

Key to success is the cohesive team approach and commitment of all school staff and close, regular contact with parents and carers who are invited to weekly RETREAT 'surgery' sessions, individual appointments and parent/child workshops.

Sandra M Bonthrone (Behaviour Support Teacher)
Niddrie Mill Primary School