Our Approach to Behaviour

At Highfields College, our approach to behaviour is all about creating a positive and supportive environment. We believe that good behaviour starts with good relationships, which is why we have smaller class sizes than mainstream schools and a team of mentors working alongside our teachers.

Our approach to behaviour is summarised as ‘Aim High, Cause No Harm’. Students are encouraged and coached to ‘Aim High’ with their behaviour. Good behaviour is recognised with frequent rewards including certificates and trips out of school.

We believe good behaviour is also summed up by the mantra ‘Cause No Harm.’ Our staff adopt an approach summarised best as “high challenge, high support – low threat, low shame.” If things get difficult, there are breakout spaces and a team of mentors to help students calm down. Our teachers and mentors prefer to use a restorative approach, which means coaching students to recognise their mistakes and make things right.

Like any other school, college or workplace there are ‘red lines’ – where students are causing repeat or deep harm to others we follow a ‘traffic light’ system of consequences. The school also works with our parents and carers to make sure we’re all on the same page and working together.

The above information is a summary of our Behaviour Management Policy – Jan 2026. If you have any further questions about behaviour management at Highfields College, please do not hesitate to get in touch.