Praise for St Mark’s pupils for completing Restorative Practices course

Education Minister John O’Dowd has praised pupils at St Mark’s High School in Warrenpoint for completing a course in Restorative Practices.

The 10-week course is externally accredited by the Open College Network NI, a nationally recognised awarding organisation which offers high quality, flexible, credit-based qualifications.

Speaking as he presented certificates to Year 14 pupils, the Minister said, “Restorative Justice, with its focus on mutual respect, understanding and the sharing of experiences in a safe and non-judgemental way, can have a positive impact in the school environment.

“Research has shown how the practice can reduce unacceptable behaviour in schools. As Minister for Education, one of my key concerns is the impact of bullying within our schools which is why I am bringing forward new anti-bullying legislation later this year.

“We are therefore currently asking the public for their views on the action I plan to take to help eradicate bullying behaviour in schools and I encourage you to share your views.

O’Dowd added, “I congratulate all of you for completing the Restorative Practices course and for staff at St Mark’s for introducing restorative justice to the school curriculum and the wider ethos of the school.”

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Posted by Newry Times News on Jan 30 2015. Filed under Community. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry