Education Welfare

Professional Development Opportunities 2025-26 -> Education Welfare

The Education Welfare Service is proud to take the lead in embedding Restorative Practices (RP) across all educational provisions, creating a consistent, relationship-centred approach that enhances the emotional wellbeing, engagement, and sense of belonging among pupils and staff alike.

Recognising the central role that relationships play in a positive and inclusive school climate, the RP team will work in partnership with schools and educational settings to support the implementation of restorative approaches that align with existing pastoral and behavioural frameworks.  These practices are not only effective in preventing and resolving conflict, but are also a powerful tool for building and maintaining strong, respectful relationships throughout the school community.

To support schools in this journey, a range of professional learning opportunities will be made available. These are designed to ensure that all staff – teaching and non-teaching – feel confident and equipped to contribute to a restorative culture. The learning offer includes:

• Introductory Workshops for whole-school staff, providing a shared understanding of restorative principles, values, and potential impact.
• Specialist Training for staff in key roles, focusing on skills and tools to support the implementation of relational restorative approaches in education settings:
• Getting Started with Restorative Practice
• Facilitation Skills for restorative conversations and meetings.
• The use of restorative circles as practical tools for strengthening connections, encouraging pupil voice, and creating inclusive dialogue.
• Techniques for resolving conflict and repairing harm in a way that promotes accountability and empathy.

This phased and flexible approach will ensure that schools are equipped to embed restorative practices in a sustainable way, tailored to their specific context and needs. As the lead within EA, the EWS, Restorative Practice Team will provide ongoing guidance, resources, and capacity building to support implementation and long-term impact.

By investing in restorative practices, we are investing in healthier school communities, stronger relationships, and more positive outcomes for all our young people.
For further information, please contact RestorativePractice@eani.org.uk.

Getting Started with Restorative Practices

Facilitation Skills