Restorative Pathways Professional Learning

Written by Mrs Leanne Schulz (Assistant Principal: Primary)

02 February 2026

Staff at Aitken College were fortunate to engage in professional learning facilitated by Kristy Elliott from Restorative Pathways, designed to promote and strengthen a whole-school approach to building positive relationships and enhancing wellbeing. The learning from the day complemented our existing School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) model. Across the College, a Behaviour Expectation Matrix—age-appropriate for both primary and secondary students—is explicitly taught and consistently referenced, clearly outlining expected behaviours across a range of learning environments.

Restorative Practice is grounded in the belief that relationships and people are central to the life of schools and communities. This philosophy places a strong emphasis on nurturing positive relationships, strengthening social and emotional capabilities, promoting community wellbeing, fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments, and implementing fair and participatory systems. When conflict arises, a restorative approach focuses on recognising and addressing harm to individuals and relationships, and working collaboratively with those most affected to repair that harm. This process values every member of the school community while supporting both accountability and a sense of belonging.

During the first part of the professional learning day, staff were introduced to relevant theories and evidence across a range of areas, including brain development, the impact of trauma, emotional regulation, states of learning, the role of the nervous system, relational engagement, positive psychology, compassionate communication, and conflict navigation. Throughout the remainder of the day, staff engaged in opportunities to analyse and discuss everyday school-based scenarios, applying restorative principles within practical contexts.