Finch Woods Academy Behaviour Overview
At Finch Woods Academy, we are committed to creating a calm, safe and nurturing environment where every pupil feels valued, supported and ready to learn. As a specialist setting for pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, our approach to behaviour is therapeutic and based on positive relationships, recognising that behaviour is a form of communication and closely linked to wellbeing.
Our behaviour culture is built on clear expectations and consistency. High standards are expected across all aspects of school life, including behaviour and students are asked to follow our Code of Conduct, ‘The Finch Woods Five’. We prioritise praise, rewards and encouragement to reinforce positive behaviour, guided by our school motto “Ready to Learn, Prepared for Life.” By celebrating success and recognising effort, we help pupils develop confidence, resilience and self-regulation.
Staff use restorative practices, de-escalation strategies and trauma‑informed approaches, ensuring pupils are supported to understand their behaviour and make positive choices. Where pupils are not ready to learn in a classroom setting, supervised, purposeful spaces are used to help them regulate and re-engage safely. Physical intervention is always a last resort and only used when necessary to keep pupils and staff safe, in line with nationally recognised training and guidance.
We work closely with parents, carers, therapists and external agencies, valuing strong partnerships, which we see as key to supporting pupils’ development. Behaviour is carefully monitored to inform support, celebrate progress and continuously improve our practice.
Through this consistent, caring and aspirational approach, Finch Woods Academy aims to help pupils develop the skills, attitudes and behaviours they need to thrive in school, in their communities and in later life as adults.
