Ready, Respectful and Safe

Learning and Behaviour Expectations at Tolleshunt D'Arcy

Our Learning Code: Ready, Respectful and Safe

At Tolleshunt D’Arcy, our Learning and Behaviour Code — Ready, Respectful and Safe — underpins everything we do. These simple expectations help us create a calm, purposeful environment where every child can learn, feel valued, and flourish.

When children have their needs met and feel secure, they are more able to be:

• Ready – prepared to learn, attentive and equipped

• Respectful – towards themselves, others, and the environment

• Safe – making choices that keep everyone protected, emotionally and physically

This consistent language is used across the school so that expectations remain clear for all pupils, parents and staff.

A Behaviour Approach Rooted in Relationships and Consistency

Our approach is inspired by the work of behaviour specialist Paul Dix, who reminds us that “When the adults change, everything changes.” We believe strongly that positive behaviour grows from strong relationships, calm adult behaviour, and predictable routines.

Our staff model the behaviour we expect: respectful interactions, steady tone, kindness, and clear boundaries. This predictable adult behaviour helps pupils feel safe and guided.

“Consistency is the foundation of fairness.” This message shapes how we respond to all learners (Paul Dix).

Aligned with DfE Behaviour Expectations

Our behaviour approach is closely aligned with the Department for Education (DfE) guidance, which emphasises:

• Clear and high expectations for behaviour

• Consistent routines across the school day

• Positive, proactive strategies to support good conduct

• Teaching behaviour as a curriculum, not assuming children ‘just know’

• A calm, safe and orderly environment where pupils can thrive academically

We follow the principle that behaviour should be taught, modelled, reinforced and reflected upon, not simply managed. This ensures that behaviour supports learning rather than interrupts it.

Evidence-Informed Practice (EEF)

The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) highlights that successful behaviour systems include:

• Simple, clear rules understood by all

• Calm and consistent adult responses

• Routines that are practised and embedded

• Positive relationships and emotional safety

• Explicit teaching of expectations

Our Learning Code reflects these principles. By teaching pupils what Ready, Respectful and Safe looks like in different situations, we ensure the same expectations apply for every child, every lesson, every day.

Reflection and Responsibility

Teachers and support staff nurture pupils to:

• reflect on their choices

• understand the impact of their words and actions

• repair relationships where needed

• take responsibility in a supportive, guided way

We believe mistakes are learning opportunities. Children are supported to restore, reset and return to learning calmly.

Creating a Calm and Purposeful School

By embedding our Learning Code, we ensure:

• classrooms that are settled and focused

• smooth transitions and predictable routines

• respectful relationships among all members of the school

• safe, supportive spaces where children feel they belong

• a learning environment where pupils can truly excel

This contributes to a whole-school culture where behaviour enhances learning rather than disrupts it.

Living Out Our Christian Vision

Being Ready, Respectful and Safe enables pupils to live out our Christian vision of “life in all its fullness.”

Through positive choices, responsibility, respect, and kindness, our children grow into confident, compassionate individuals ready for the future.

''There has been a strong focus on improving behaviour. Pupils know how they are

expected to behave.'' Ofsted April 24