Product reviews for Independent Thinking on Restorative Practice

In this enlightening, challenging and timely book, Mark Finnis sets out his vision and practical experience of cultivating a relationships-based school. Mark highlights the need for staff to build trust by building relationships, with the focus on creating and strengthening the ties of human connection to promote engagement, productivity and happiness. 

His emphasis is on developing effective restorative practice as the key factor in strengthening relationships, alongside strategies of consistent behaviour management as the central approach to repairing harm when those relationships break down. Readers at all levels of experience in utilising restorative practice will gain greatly from the author's ideas and expertise on the subject. Mark discusses key issues such as developing a restorative mindset, modelling, creating a sense of belonging, knowing your children well, and also covers other issues which can, on occasions, blur the vision of staff - which can then result in a
negative impact upon practice. Undoubtedly, Mark's ideas on restorative conversations and language will take some practitioners into new territory, with a clear emphasis on building bridges rather than brick walls. In this respect, Mark's case study of Carr Manor Community school serves as evidence that his vision of a relational school can work in practice.

Independent Thinking on Restorative Practice is essential reading for all staff, particularly those senior leaders eager to create a stronger school community with an emphasis on improving learners' behaviour and engagement.