Problem Solving
Problem Solving At Belfast School, principles around voice, choice, respect and responsibility are developed through democratic practice. Students make decisions and choices and must accept the responsibility of doing so. Concerns, regarding inappropriate choices in the classroom are usually resolved, with dignity, between the teacher and the student. When issues can be solved between students, student problem-solving benches are found throughout the school and students are taught and encouraged to problem solve with each other.
Belfast School is a community of students, staff and families. We continue to maintain a strong sense of pride in our school. We ask that all members of the school community:
- act in a way that promotes student learning;
- participate to the best of your ability in all learning opportunities;
- engage in and respect democratic principles;
- contributes to a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment that respects diversity, the rights of others and fosters belonging;
- make a positive contribution to the Belfast School community.
Proactive Citizenship and Anti-Bullying
Problems and conflict occur in life; how we deal with them is critical. At Belfast School, proactive strategies are in place, developed and reviewed on an on-going basis to address issues associated with respectful citizenship and potential bullying. As a whole school we work to build a positive school climate where all members contribute to a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment that respects diversity, the rights of others and fosters belonging. We address how to be positive leaders in and out of school and how to help break the bullying cycle. Students, parents and staff all have a role to play to ensure that all students, parents and staff feel safe, cared for and included in our school. Please reinforce the importance of students making adults aware of any concerns or situations they find themselves in where they are unable to solve the problem on their own.
Scope of Responsibility
Students may be held responsible and accountable by the school’s administration for their behaviour and conduct: while they are involved in school-sponsored or related activities; on school property; during lunch periods on or away from school property; while traveling to and from school; and beyond the hours of school operation if the behaviour or conduct detrimentally effects the welfare of individual students or the governance, climate or efficiency of the school.
Our Problem Solving Model
- Go to the problem solving area
- What is the problem? A tells B, B tells A
- How do we solve the problem? What do we need from each other? A tells B, B tells A 4. Can we do this? If yes, shake hands and make up, if no, repeat the process or take a time out to rethink positions.
