Policy: Positive Behaviour and Rewards

Policy details

Policy details

• Review Date - 22/06/26
• Date approved by Trust Board - 10/07/2025
• Next review date - 10/07/2027
• Policy owner - Edward Sealy Keaney

Co-op Academy Belle Vue

450 Hyde Road

Manchester, M12 4BA

0161 250 3101

bellevue@coopacademies.co.uk

https://www.bellevue.coopacademies.co.uk/

Contents

Policy details        

1. Policy Statement and Purpose        1

2. Rules and Ways of Being        3

3. Rights and Responsibilities        3

4. Developing Positive Behaviour        5

5. Recognition        6

6. Classroom Strategies and Expectations        6

7. Expectations Around the Academy        7

8. Expectations outside of School        10

9.  Consequences        10

10. Further Intervention and Support        1

11. Child on Child Abuse        13

12. Suspensions        14

13. Permanent Exclusion        15

14. Searching, Screening and Confiscation        15

Appendix i Coding on Arbor

Appendix ii Co-op Academy Belle Vue Consequences Tariff

Appendix iii Suspension Reintegration Meeting - Co-op Academy Belle Vue

Appendix iv Graduated Response to Managing Behaviour

Appendix v Graduated Approach

1. Policy Statement and Purpose

Co-op Academy Belle Vue has developed this Behaviour for Learning Policy to ensure that all members of our community understand our high expectations for conduct and safety and to make clear to pupils what  acceptable and unacceptable behaviour looks like. We know that excellent behaviour leads to better outcomes and we want our pupils to leave Belle Vue  as well qualified, well rounded citizens. Pupils’ ability to make the right choices, to learn from their mistakes and demonstrate self-responsibility is both rooted in co-operative values and is also an important part of developing into responsible citizens who can go on to make a positive contribution to society. Our behaviour for learning policy allows pupils to clearly see the consequences, both positive and negative, that arise from the choices they make.

The academy, as a learning community, is committed to ensure success for all. This means that in all work with young people we aim to ensure that they: make great progress and enjoy learning; stay mentally and physically healthy; stay safe; make a positive contribution to the community and the world.

Co-op Academy Belle Vue  is committed to the development of pupils’ personal, social and moral development. The purpose of the clear code of conduct set out in this policy is to ensure that everyone at Co-op Academy Belle Vue  will go on to be positive and creative members of society and will fulfil their potential. The policy is based on principles of unconditional positive regard; clear boundaries delivered with warmth; and belief that every pupil,regardless of background, is able to succeed.

We are committed to doing what matters most by ensuring that our pupils strive to achieve success. We are dedicated to succeeding together to ensure that all pupils are able to study at further and higher education in order to have a successful career as valuable members of society. We believe that anyone who is successful must be co-operative, responsible, happy, healthy, resilient, independent and show they care about their own aspirations and the aspirations of others. We also want our pupils to express themselves in the right way embodying ‘being yourself, always’ across our community.

This policy should be read in conjunction with the following policies (available on the Co-op Academy Trust website and the Co-op Academy Belle Vue website):

Anti Bullying

Equality Statement and Objectives

Health and Safety

Positive Handling

Safeguarding and Child Protection

Special Educational Needs

Mental Health and Well-Being

Exclusions

This policy is underpinned by the following legislation and guidance:

Behaviour in Schools - Advice for Headteachers and School Staff 

School suspensions and Permanent Exclusions (updated July 2026)

Searching, Screening and Confiscation - Advice for Schools 

Keeping children safe in education

Mobile phones in schools - GOV.UK 

Use of reasonable force and other restrictive interventions guidance 

Education Act (2002), as amended by Education Act (2011)

Education and Inspections Act (2006)

School Discipline [Pupil Exclusions and Reviews] – England – Regulations (2012)

Equality Act (2010, revised 2018)

Our Academy is underpinned by our CARE principles:

COOPERATION -            We work together to achieve a common goal.

COMMUNITY -            We value the group, we are all different but equal.

ACHIEVEMENT -            We recognise and celebrate success.

AMBITION -                We strive for academic and personal growth.

RESPONSIBILITY -           We take ownership of our actions and choices.

RESPECT -                We treat ourselves and others with kindness.

ENJOYMENT -            We find joy, fulfilment and pride in what we do and who we are.

ENDEAVOUR -            We give our best effort in all that we do.

Inclusivity and Equity

We are a fully inclusive academy, where every student, regardless of any barriers to learning, is valued and supported. Our policy is rooted in fairness and equity, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to succeed. We understand that every child has unique needs, and our approach is to provide tailored support while maintaining high expectations for behaviour. By promoting positive behaviour, we create an environment where every student can thrive and achieve their potential.

This policy should be read in conjunction with the following policies (available on the Co-op Academy Trust website and the Co-op Academy Belle Vue website):

Anti Bullying

Equality Statement and Objectives

Health and Safety

Positive Handling

Safeguarding and Child Protection

Special Educational Needs

Mental Health and Well-Being

Exclusions

This policy is underpinned by the following legislation and guidance:

Behaviour in Schools - Advice for Headteachers and School Staff

School suspensions and Permanent Exclusions

Searching, Screening and Confiscation - Advice for Schools

Keeping Children Safe in Education  

Education Act (2002), as amended by Education Act (2011)

Education and Inspections Act (2006)

School Discipline [Pupil Exclusions and Reviews] – England – Regulations (2012)

Equality Act (2010, revised 2018)

In addition to this guidance, Co-op Academies recognises that although schools serve local communities and therefore design their behaviour and culture around their context, there are fundamental principles behind great school culture. These have been laid out here in our Behaviour Principles - and underpin the spirit and content of this policy.

2. Rules and Ways of Being

Co-op Academy  Belle Vue is underpinned by the values of the Co-op and all within the academy aspire to the Co-op Ways of Being: Succeed Together, Do What Matters Most, Be Yourself Always and Show You Care.

In order to achieve this we have developed a set of CARE principles which provide a ‘road-map’ on how we behave.  They are; Community, Cooperation, Ambition, Achievement, Respect, Responsibility, Enjoyment, and Endeavour.

Whether in a lesson, out and about in our local community or during social time or lesson changeover, all students at Co-op Academy Belle Vue are expected to demonstrate our CARE principles at all times by acting in a CARE-ing manner.

To provide clarity to staff, students and parents we have 7 basic school rules that we expect students to follow at all times.

We treat others with CARE.

We are punctual.

We bring all essential items.

We wear the full and correct uniform.

We ensure mobile phones are not seen or heard while on academy premises.

We do not eat, drink (except water), or chew gum in classrooms or corridors.

We transition through the academy in SSF

3. Rights and Responsibilities

Rights

All members of Co-op Academy Belle Vue  have:

•  The right to learn
•  The right to teach
•  The right to feel safe and secure
•  The right to respect and dignity

Responsibilities

All members of Co-op Academy Belle Vue  have a responsibility:

• To live by and embody the Co-op Ways of Being
• To be good role models
• To speak politely and calmly to everyone
• To be punctual, prepared and productive in every lesson (to be ready, respectful and safe)
• To treat everyone as we would like to be treated

All members of the school community are expected to display positive behaviour at all times both on the school premises and wherever they are identifiable as being part of the school community.

The Governing Body

Governors are responsible for monitoring this Behaviour for Learning policy’s effectiveness and holding the Headteacher to account for its implementation. Governors should review this policy every year to ensure its effectiveness.

The Headteacher

The Headteacher is responsible for reviewing and approving this Behaviour for Learning policy. The Headteacher will ensure the school environment encourages positive behaviour and that staff deal effectively with poor behaviour, and will monitor how staff implement this policy to ensure rewards and sanctions are applied consistently.

In addition:

• The Headteacher and staff have the power to use reasonable force and other physical contact in order to maintain and restore order (as stipulated in the Positive Handling Policy), but cannot, under any circumstances, use force as a form of punishment. Corporate punishment of any kind is entirely illegal.
• The Headteacher and delegated staff have the power to search pupils, screen electronic devices, and to confiscate property in circumstances that align with the Positive Handling Policy and section 13 of this policy (see below)
• The Headteacher and delegated staff have the power to discipline pupils outside of school hours if it is a school-related matter, or the pupil’s actions undermine the safety of anyone from our community or the good reputation of the Academy
• The Headteacher and academy staff have the power to impose detentions beyond the hours of the school day

Staff

Staff are responsible for:

● Implementing the Behaviour for Learning policy consistently.

● Modelling positive behaviour.

● Providing a personalised approach to the specific behavioural needs of particular pupils.

● Recording behaviour incidents on Arbor

● Recording any safeguarding related behaviour incidents on CPOMS.

Parents

Parents are expected to:

● Support their child in adhering to our ‘Home - Academy Agreement’ and this policy.

● Inform the school of any changes in circumstances that may affect their child’s behaviour.

● Discuss any behavioural concerns with the school staff promptly

•  Work in partnership with the school to uphold the policy

4. Developing Positive Behaviour

We have high expectations of pupils at Co-op Academy Belle Vue and believe that clear and consistent boundaries, positive relationships and regular and sustained use of praise and rewards leads to good behaviour and positive attitudes to learning.

To support staff and pupils in upholding the policy, we use many opportunities to induct and reinduct our staff and pupils into the rules and norms of the academy. These include:

Staff

• All staff receive training at the start of the academic year and are expected to read the policy
• Staff receive regular training updates and further CPD during designated CPD time
• New staff receive an induction of the school policies and procedures in managing behaviour
• Quality assurance of how staff establish a culture of good behaviour and routines in their classroom  take place via regular drop ins, learning walks and feedback from leaders
• Elements of department time are used to ensure systems and routines are embedded and understood

Pupils

• Key habits and routines for pupils are established via assemblies, tutor period, role modelling, rehearsal and consistent reinforcement of expectations on a daily basis
• Comprehensive behaviour curriculum to teach pupils our high expectations is delivered through PSHE, assemblies, tutor time and other reinduction opportunities throughout the year
• Transparency of processes and routines are shared on a regular basis with pupils and families to allow all to be fully aware of our expectations, along with specific rewards and consequences.

Positive Behaviour Approach:

We must not be surprised when problems occur. We are working with young people who are learning

and testing the boundaries of acceptable behaviour. In dealing with undesirable behaviour we need to

promote good behaviour. This means developing skills and strategies that do not merely rely on sanctions. Sanctions do not, in themselves, change behaviour but simply apply the limits to behaviour

that enables us to reward and reinforce.

Do all you can to:

• remind pupils of which Way of Being or rule they are not demonstrating

• reprimand privately – it encourages cooperation

• keep calm – it shows high status, reduces tension and models desired behaviour

• listen – it earns respect

• use first names

• focus on positive aspects of pupils’ work and behaviour

• praise remorse when pupils take responsibility for poor behaviour

• remain positive and focus on what the pupil SHOULD be doing. Not what is going wrong

• be fair and consistent

• use the minimum sanction necessary to achieve your desired outcome

• use humour appropriately

• re-integrate the pupil into the class

• seek closure after the sanction – it is important to start again and demonstrate a willingness to

re-build relationships (positive regard).

Do all you can to avoid:

• humiliation

• public confrontations – they promote retaliation through peer pressure

• sarcasm

• shouting often – it weakens your status

• over-punishing – it reduces options later

• blanket punishments – the innocent do not deserve them

• jumping to conclusions – avoid punishing what you can’t prove

• overreacting – the problems will grow.

All sanctions quickly lose their effectiveness if frequently used. Avoid constantly punishing

pupils. Only the pupil can change their behaviour and, repeated concerns, will require you to

enlist support from others who might help you to influence the pupil, (e.g. Parents/Carers, Subject

Leaders, Form Tutors, Heads of Year, Pastoral Managers and the Senior Leadership Team etc).

It is crucial to remain calm, assertive and in control. Raising your voice may be necessary but never

lose control and never scream and shout; we do not want pupils to have this behaviour modelled to them.

5. Recognition

All staff are encouraged to plan for positive behaviour and attitudes to learning and apply rewards regularly and consistently. There is a range of ways to do this which include:

Merits

CARE Cards

Golden Tickets

Postcards home

Phone calls to parents

Weekly Celebration during assemblies

Half termly Celebration assemblies

End of year/term school ‘rewards’ trips

Rewards Trips

If there are a significant number of well-behaved students showing an interest in going on a ‘rewards’ trip’, school will endeavour to facilitate this. Eligibility for the rewards trips will be based on attendance, punctuality, behaviour and effort and engagement reports from class teachers.

6. Classroom Strategies and Expectations

In the classroom pupils are expected to treat everyone with CARE. To support pupils to do this the following strategies are in place

1. Teachers will make clear to all students the learning expectations of the classroom; independent silent study, respectful whole class listening and quiet partner work
2. Teachers will use non-invasive methods to correct poor behaviours before directly speaking to individuals
3. A verbal warning will be given to pupils before any sanction is given
4. Verbal warnings will be made explicit through the singing of a standards card
5. Students who continue to disrupt the learning environment will be removed from the lesson*

* students who create a serious risk to the learning or safety of other students or themselves will be removed from the classroom immediately

7. Expectations Around the Academy

Essential Items:

In order for students to attend school each day ready for learning, they must bring with them their ‘essential items’ as detailed below. This is an expectation of every item, every lesson, every day. Failure to come to school with a full basic kit will result in behaviour points and sanctions. Most basic items are ‘sold’ at school for students to ‘buy’ using their merits through Arbor.  

Chromebook

Black pen

Green pen

Pencil

Ruler

Reading Book  

Knowledge Expert Book

School Uniform

We place great emphasis on the appearance of our students and uniform is an integral part of the custom and character of the school. Our expectation is that students not only wear school uniform but look smart when they are doing so.

Students are expected to wear full school uniform at all times and ensure they adhere to uniform guidelines. Refusal to follow school uniform rules may result in the student being placed in our Reset Room. Students who repeatedly fail to meet the school’s uniform expectations are at risk of suspension.

It is compulsory that only those items stipulated within the official school uniform are permissible to be worn by our students. The only exception to this is if a student wishes to wear something of religious or cultural importance. In this instance the matter should be discussed with their Head of Year who will make a discretionary decision as to whether the item is appropriate for school.

• Any student wishing to wear a head covering for religious reasons may do so. The colour must be black, white or blue
• The uniform policy applies to students attending off-site provision (including activities) and out of hours’ activities unless parents/carers are advised otherwise.
• Outdoor coats MUST be removed once inside the school building. Sports ‘hoodies’, ‘zippies’ or similar items are not considered to be an outdoor coat or an item of the school uniform and therefore must be removed before entering the school site.
• Students are not permitted to attend school with any form of pattern shaved into their hair or eyebrows. Extreme haircuts and unnatural colourings to their hair are also not permitted.
• Students with make-up/Jewellery/ fake tan etc will be asked to remove it; form tutors will contact home
• School pinafores must finish below the knee.
• Students are permitted to wear a watch but other jewellery items are NOT permitted at school.
• All shoes must be black in colour and a ‘proper’ shoe and not a trainer. Sport logos are not permitted on the exterior of the shoe. See appendix 2 for acceptable footwear.
• Trainers are not allowed to be worn whilst on school site, other than when playing sports at break or lunch time. They must never be worn during lesson time except in PE Practical sessions.
• On days in which students participate in taught physical education or physical enrichment they may wear academy PE kit for the full academy day.

Transitions around School

We believe that silent corridors are the most effective way to ensure our students are happy and safe when in school. They are an important part of our ambition for our students to get the best possible outcomes as they ensure a minimum amount of learning time is lost through students travelling between lessons and around the school. We therefore expect our students to be silent when travelling around our school building and students who fail to meet this expectation will be sanctioned with a detention.  

Mobile Phones, Smart Devices and Headphones

Mobile Phones, Smart Devices (including watches) and headphones are not allowed to be seen on the school site.

We understand many parents/carers wish for their child to have a mobile phone on the way to and from school for their personal safety. If this is the case the phone should be kept safe in the bottom of their bags so they do not cause any disruption to the Academy day.

Mobile Phones, Smart Devices (including tablets and watches) are not allowed to be seen on the school site. If a student wishes to bring a phone to school, the phone should be kept switched off and stored in the bottom of their bags so they do not cause any disruption to the Academy day. If mobile phones or smart devices are seen or heard by a member of staff then they will be confiscated with immediate effect and the student issued a Reset Room sanction. Devices will only be returned to an adult at the school reception. If a student refuses to hand over the item they may receive a suspension.

Mobile phones that are confiscated will be placed in the safe at school reception and can be collected by an adult at any time between 8.30am and 4.30 pm. Mobile phones will not be returned to students until the Head of Academy or Vice Principal has deemed it is safe to do so. The school does not take responsibility for any lost/stolen ‘banned’ items brought into school.

Punctuality

Punctuality is essential for the success of all our students and therefore if a student arrives late to school (after 8.30am) they will be issued with a sanction.  

Inappropriate items brought into school  

Co-op Academy Belle Vue has a zero tolerance policy towards any weapons being brought onto or into our school site. This for example, could be any type of knife. Any child who is suspected of having brought a dangerous item onto school premises will have their belongings searched. Students who have brought any type of weapon onto school premises are likely to be permanently excluded.

Drugs  

Drugs, cigarettes, vapes and any associated paraphernalia or dangerous items are banned from school. If a student endangers the welfare of our students and staff by bringing drugs or dangerous items onto our school site or if a student is found to be supplying or distributing illegal substances and/or any items deemed to be drug paraphernalia, they are likely to be permanently excluded and the police informed. students are reminded about this rule throughout the year. Any concerns that staff and/ or parents have regarding students using drugs outside of school will be referred to the Safeguarding team.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment of any kind will not be tolerated at Co-op Academy Belle Vue. This includes all ‘Non – contact’ and ‘Contact’ forms as outlined by the ‘Review of Sexual abuse’ Ofsted June 2021.  Allegations of sexual harassment will be fully investigated by either HOH/SLT and where necessary seriously sanctioned. This may result in a fixed term exclusion and possibly a permanent exclusion.

Homophobia

Homophobia is a hate crime and will not be tolerated at Co-op Academy Belle Vue. Allegations of homophobia will fully be investigated by either HOY/ SLT. If it is decided that a student has made homophobic comments or who is found to be promoting any type of homophobic bullying, they will be seriously sanctioned. This may result in a fixed term exclusion and possibly a permanent exclusion.

Racism

Racism is a hate crime and will not be tolerated at Co-op Academy Belle Vue. Allegations of racism will fully be investigated by either HOY/ SLT. If it is decided that a student has made racist comments or who is found to be promoting any type of racist bullying, they will be seriously sanctioned. This may result in a fixed term exclusion and possibly a permanent exclusion.

Malicious Allegations  

Any allegation of wrongdoing will be investigated using the ‘Managing Allegations of Staff’ policy. If a student is found to have made a malicious allegation against a member of staff, then the parents/carers of the students will be invited to a meeting to discuss the details leading up to it and a sanction may be issued.

Isolation in the Reset Room  or suspensions will be used as sanctions for malicious allegations, however where staff agree, restorative meetings will take place. Decisions will be made by the Principal once they have considered issues of severity, previous similar behaviours and safeguarding.

An off site direction may be put in place as a rest bite measure for the student following malicious allegations being made.

Drinks Policy

Due to the high level of sugar contained in fizzy drinks/energy drinks and the impact this can have on a student’s behaviour, fizzy drinks and energy drinks are not allowed on the school site. If found, they will be confiscated. Co-op Academy Belle Vue encourages a water only approach to drinks and water fountains are placed around the site to support this. students must bring a suitable bottle to use these fountains as cups and bottles are NOT provided for them.

Selling

Selling items to other students is illegal. If students are found to be doing this, the items will be confiscated and the profits given to a selected charity.

8. Expectations outside of School

At all times when students are wearing our school uniform (or can be identified as a Co-op Academy Belle Vue student) they are ambassadors for the school and must act accordingly; this means they must act in a CARE-ing manner.

Misuse of Social Media

students are regularly informed and reminded about the dangers of social media and their responsibilities in using and accessing it. Therefore, it is assumed that any student who is responsible for any type of misuse of social media is fully aware of their actions, even though they may have carried it out when at home or at the weekend. students will therefore be sanctioned accordingly if ‘Restorative Justice’ is not appropriate. Misuse of social media includes but is not restricted to the following;

Cyberbullying

• Sexting
• Verbal abuse of students and/ or staff
• ‘Liking’ any image or post which causes upset
• Posting any image which causes upset
• Posting any image without a person’s knowledge and/ or consent
• Posting images and comments which demonstrate illegal and/ or inappropriate activity

Co-op Academy Belle Vue has the legal power to sanction students whose behaviour outside the school premises disrupts the learning environment in school or brings the school into disrepute. For example, using Social Media at home, may cause upset to someone in school during the day.

9.  Consequences

Although Co-op Academy Belle Vue does everything they can to mitigate the need for consequences and sanctions, we know that students do make mistakes. If a student’s conduct falls below the expectations laid out in this policy (including expectations inside and outside school) the following consequences would apply:

The school will work tirelessly to ensure every possible option of support is offered and provided to our students who are struggling to be the best version of themselves. However, we will take difficult decisions where the common good of our students is compromised. There are a variety of sanctions which may be used for any student depending on the severity of the situation. These sanctions are listed below and a guide to when they may be applied can be found in Appendix 1.

Behaviour points: These are issued via the Arbor system and are monitored by Heads of Year and Heads of department. Some behaviour points are also issued with a sanction depending on the specific behaviour.

Detentions: These are issued for lunchtimes or after school depending on the seriousness of the incident. These will run every day, unless notified in advance. It is school policy to try to give fair notice for after school detentions; however, the principal reserves the right to issue no notice detentions in specific cases.  

After school detentions of 30 minutes are issued the same day with an email to families.

After school detentions of 90 minutes will have notice given at least the previous school day unless agreed with families.

NB. Teachers will not adjust detention times to suit the student’s ‘after school’ availability. students must rearrange their after school commitments to ensure they can serve any detentions incurred.

The Reset Room: This is an internal exclusion unit where a student will work in silence and not be allowed out during break and lunchtime. Note that students may be placed in the Reset Room whilst an incident is being ‘investigated’ or following a suspension as part of their reintegration back to school.

Suspensions (Previously ‘Fixed Term Exclusions’): The Department for Education states that ‘Good discipline in schools is essential to ensure that all students can benefit from the opportunities provided by education. The Government supports head teachers in using exclusion as a sanction where it is warranted’ (2017). More information about when a suspension may be issued can be found below.

10. Further Intervention and Support

We recognise that some students may require a higher level of support to enable them to ‘get it right’.  These students will have been given the same chances and support as other students but continue to disrupt the school community either in or outside of lessons. Students who fit into this category may be directed to one or more of the following;

Behaviour and intervention reports: Due to the many individual circumstances that can affect a student's behaviour, the decision to place a student on a behaviour and intervention report, remains at the discretion of the student’s Head of Year, or a member of the Senior Leadership Team. However as a guide, students who accrue more than 20 behaviour points in a 3 week period are highly likely to be placed on a Stage 1 report. Students returning from a suspension are also highly likely to be placed on a Stage 2 report for a two week monitoring period.

Reports last two weeks in the first instance but may be extended by one week if the Student’s Head of Year feels it is appropriate. Students who fail to meet the targets agreed at the start of the reporting process, will be escalated to the next stage of report.

A list of our reports can be found below;

• Stage 1 Report to Form tutor
• Stage 2 Report to Head of Year
• Stage 3 Report to a member of the Senior Leadership Team
• Positive Report Card – usually triggered to support a student in shifting their focus from defiance and poor behaviour to celebration and success as appropriate
• Effort and Engagement Report Card – a short term report card issued to give students with a low effort and engagement score
• Subject Reports – led by Heads of Departments for behaviours in a specific subject area

We expect students who have successfully passed a behaviour report to continue to meet our school rules for a sustained and continuous period and they will therefore be monitored closely by their Head of Year/SLT.

Respite Placements: These involve a student continuing their education in a supervised setting at an offsite location for up to a maximum of 5 days. Students will be placed at other schools in the local authority. Parents will be informed and a reintegration meeting will take place on the day of the students return to their mainstream provision.

Temporary placement (short term off site direction or longer term fixed term off site direction) at another school

External Isolation: These involve students attending the reset/isolation provision at another school in the local authority.

Behaviour Panels: These are formal meetings held with the School’s Head of Academy, Executive principal or Governors on specific issues in school. If a student is persistently failing to meet our School rules and/or has acted in a way that causes concern, they may be requested to attend a panel to discuss the behaviour or incident. Parents will be invited to these panel meetings in order to discuss the student’s future at Co-op Academy Belle Vue.

Alternative Provision: Where there is the option to use an alternative provision to further support a student’s welfare and behaviour, then this will be fully explored.  Additionally, the Head of Academy reserves the right to direct alternative provision as an alternative to a permanent exclusion or by way of respite provision for students who are are risk of permanent exclusions. This is in line with the DfE Statutory guidance for local authorities wich can be found by clicking the link below. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/942014/alternative_provision_statutory_guidance_accessible.pdf 

Parental Meetings: Where there is a lack of improvement in a student’s behaviour, parents will be invited to meet with their Head of Year or a member of the Senior Leadership Team. This will be an opportunity to explore if there are any barriers to the students being able to meet the school behavioural expectations and whether there is  any further reasonable support that can be made by the school.

Everyone who attends a meeting in school is expected to act in a professional and reasonable manner during meetings. Whilst there may be challenges of decisions made, this must be done in a courteous and respectful way. All parties are expected to act with the best interests of the child. Swearing, intimation, verbal or physical aggression will not be tolerated by Co-op Academy Belle Vue staff. If this occurs the meeting will end immediately and parents/carers must leave the school site without delay. They will be contacted via telephone to discuss a way forward; this may involve another meeting when tempers have calmed or it may involve a ban from the school site for an individual.

The school does not allow parents/carers or third parties to record parental meetings. Anyone secretly filming or recording a meeting will be banned from attending the school with immediate effect.

Supporting Students with SEND

Our inclusive policy ensures all students have the opportunity to learn in a safe environment, rules and strategies are clear to avoid ambiguity.  Students with identified SEN will have reasonable adjustments put in place to be agreed with the parent/carer and student. This may include the following (not an exhaustive list):

• Time out
• Uniform
• Fidget toys
• Student passports
• Teaching assistant support
• Routines
• Provision at unstructured times
• Specific seating position within the classroom.
• Ensure the students' support plan is part of the established routines in everyone of their lessons.
• Nudge texts to remind students about expectations of equipment and standards

The school recognises its legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to prevent students with a protected characteristic from being at a disadvantage. Consequently, our approach to challenging behaviour may be differentiated to cater to the needs of the student. The school’s special educational needs co-ordinator will evaluate a student who exhibits challenging behaviour to determine whether they have any underlying needs that are not currently being met. Where necessary, support and advice will also be sought from specialist teachers, an educational psychologist, medical practitioners and/or others, to identify or support specific needs.

11. Child on Child Abuse

Co-op Academy Belle Vue is committed to ensuring a climate of safety for all pupils by challenging inappropriate behaviour between peers. We have a zero tolerance approach of all forms of child on child abuse including (but not limited to):

• Bullying (including cyberbullying, prejudice-based and discriminatory bullying)
• Abuse in intimate personal relationships between peers
• Physical abuse such as hitting, kicking, shaking, biting, hair pulling, or otherwise causing physical harm (this may include an online element which facilitates, threatens and / or encourages physical abuse)
• Sexual violence, such as rape, assault by penetration and sexual assault (this may include an online element which facilitates, threatens and / or encourages physical abuse)
• Sexual harassment, such as sexual comments, remarks, jokes and online sexual harassment, which may be standalone or part of a broader pattern of abuse
• Causing someone to engage in sexual activity without consent, such as forcing someone to strip, touch themselves sexually, or to engage in sexual activity with a third party
• Consensual and non-consensual sharing of nudes and semi nude images and / or videos (also known as sexting or youth produced sexual imagery)
• Upskirting, which typically involves taking a picture under a person’s clothing without their permission, with the intention of viewing their genitals or buttocks to obtain sexual gratification, or cause the victim humiliation, distress or alarm
• Initiation / hazing type violence and rituals (this could include activities involving harassment, abuse or humiliation used as a way of initiating a person into a group and may also include an online element

Where there are any reports of child on child abuse, including sexual violence and sexual harassment,  we will follow the guidance set out in Keeping Children Safe in Education. The Academy maintains a zero tolerance approach to all forms of child on child abuse and always maintain the attitude ‘it could happen here’. We will always take any reports or disclosures seriously. Any sanctions for child on child abuse will be proportionate, considered, supportive and will be decided on a case by case basis. Sanctions could include managing the incident internally, referring to early help, referring to children’s social care or reporting the incident to the police. Serious incidents could result in permanent exclusion. The Academy will not tolerate behaviour of this nature, whilst also not demonising anyone – we will support and listen to all of the pupils involved. The alleged perpetrator(s) will be offered support so that they can change their behaviour.

For more information on how we deal with child on child abuse please see:

Co-op Belle Vue Anti Bullying Policy.

Co-op Belle Vue Child Protection Policy.

Keeping Children Safe in Education

12. Suspensions

If a pupil is involved in extreme poor behaviour, the pupil will be excluded from lessons / school. Each suspension must be judged on the specific context of the particular event - thus the length of the suspension will reflect this. Suspension can be considered for behaviour outside of school. The decision to suspend a pupil is taken by the Headteacher and is always carefully considered. Where there is not definitive evidence, the Headteacher may consider ‘the balance of probability’. When a pupil is excluded they will be expected to work at home with work provided by the school.

The following list includes some examples, although not exhaustive, of unacceptable behaviour warranting suspension from the Academy:

• Carrying or using an offensive weapon
• Any assault against a member of staff or pupil
• A deliberate assault on another pupil
• Fighting
• Damage to property
• Sexual assault
• Racial, transphobic or homophobic abuse
• Verbal or physical abuse / bullying
• Verbal threatening and intimidation of staff or pupil
• Bullying committed via social networking media / electronic means
• Deliberately setting off the fire alarm
• Filming a fight or incident and posting on social media
• Fabricating stories about members of staff including on social media
• A pupil who is suspected of being under the influence of an illegal substance / drugs
• Possession of illegal drugs or related paraphernalia by an individual
• Smoking or vaping on the school site
• Persistent and entrenched refusal to comply with expectations

Every pupil that returns from suspension will need to be re-integrated back into the Academy very carefully. A meeting with parents / carers will always take place to agree the re-integration plan and the level of support that the pupil will require to avoid further suspension. If appropriate, the pastoral team will also discuss and support the family with wider issues and circumstances that may be affecting the child’s behaviour and include it in the integration plan.

After each suspension, there is a menu of support that each pupil could receive:

• Half a day in RESET completing reflection and getting ready to return to school
• Parent meeting with pupil voice, parent voice and agreed targets recorded
• 2 weeks on a behaviour report to SLT / HOY to monitor behaviour
• A careers interview to support in raising aspirations
• Directed to an extra-curricular club
• Review of tutor group / class group or seating plan
• Review of break / lunch provision and possible structuring (e.g. lunch clubs; sports)
• Long term mentoring / counselling or support agreed (if necessary)

Further information on suspensions can be found in the Trust’s Exclusion policy. For further information on consequences for different behaviours see appendix i and ii. See appendix iv for reintegration plan.

13. Permanent Exclusion

Permanent exclusion is a last resort. A Headteacher may decide to permanently exclude a pupil for persistent disruptive behaviour, where despite the school's best effort, a pupil insists on breaching the school's behaviour policy. A permanent exclusion could also be the consequence for a first 'one off' offence, based on the severity of the behaviour. One off offences may include:

• Serious actual or threatened violence against another pupil or member of staff (including online threats or abuse)
• Assault on a pupil or member of staff
• Sexual abuse or assault
• Supplying or using an illegal drug
• Carrying an offensive weapon (including any article made or adapted for causing injury)
• Serious one off incidents including ‘Hate’ incidents / crime or bullying

 Further information on permanent exclusions can be found in the Trust’s Exclusion policy.

14. Searching, Screening and Confiscation

The Headteacher has statutory power to search pupils and possessions if there are reasonable grounds to suspect pupils have prohibited items. Searches may also be carried out by members of staff and contractors authorised by the Headteacher. All authorised staff will be up to date with screening and searching procedures as laid out in government guidance .  When conducting searches, the Headteacher will consider the age and ability of pupils and make reasonable adjustments where necessary. Where possible searches will be conducted with the pupil present and away from other pupils  (unless there is reason to believe that significant harm could happen if we wait).

The school can search a pupil for any item with their consent and in their presence (e.g. turning out pockets / looking in bags). Staff have the power to search (without consent) if they have reason to believe a pupil possesses any of the following items:

• knives and weapons
• alcohol
• illegal drugs
• stolen items
• tobacco and cigarette papers
• cigarettes
• e-cigarettes
• lighters and matches
• fireworks
• pornographic images
• any article that has been or is likely to be used to commit an offence , cause personal injury or damage to property

Wherever possible, searches will be carried out by two authorised members of staff, by staff members of the same gender as the pupil, and with the pupil present as a witness. Searches that require physical contact or use of force will always be a last resort. Where the risk is considered significant, they will be conducted by a trained member of staff of the same sex as the pupil, or, if possible, and preferably, by a family member. If this is not possible (due to urgency of the situation) searches will be conducted by a permanent member of staff, with the appropriate training, of the same sex and an appropriate adult (of the same sex). In all cases, only outer clothing will be searched (pockets, bags, shoes etc). No member of the school community will conduct a search that reveals a pupil’s underwear or skin (beyond shirt sleeves).

Staff will confiscate and retain a pupil’s property if it is a banned item or any item being used to cause harm to self or others, damage to property, or disruption to the maintaining of a purposeful learning environment. For any confiscated item that is not deemed to be dangerous or potentially / known to be illegal, the confiscating staff member is required to make a proportionate and fair decision about what happens next with the item, for example:

• returning the item to the pupil at the end of that lesson
• returning the item to the pupil at the end of that day
• escalating the issue to a member of the year team / senior leadership team
• discussing with the pupil’s family about how best to return or dispose of the item

Retention of, damage to or disposal of a pupil’s personal property should not be used as a sanction and confiscation, including how the confiscation is followed up, should only be used to ensure the maintenance of a safe and purposeful learning environment.

If, when conducting a search in accordance with the above criteria, an electronic device is found that staff can reasonably suspect has been or is likely to be used to commit an offence, cause personal injury or damage to property, the data can be examined if there is good reason to i.e. doing so could mitigate harm / damage being caused. This must be done in accordance with the appropriate guidance. When an incident involves youth produced sexual imagery (nudes/semi-nudes), the member of staff should involve the Designated Safeguarding Lead immediately and the appropriate safeguarding guidance followed.

The DSL will be informed of all searching incidents (inc those where no prohibited items are found, and an accurate record kept of all search incidents (even if no prohibited item is found). We will endeavour to inform parents as early as possible, with as much detail as possible (including why the search was carried out, what was found and follow up support)  if a search has been carried out on their child.

Screening

• If a pupil refuses to be screened, the school may refuse to have the pupil on the premises. Health and safety legislation requires a school to be managed in a way which does not expose pupils or staff to risks to their health and safety and this would include making reasonable rules as a condition of admittance.
• If a pupil fails to comply, and the school does not let the pupil in, the pupil’s absence will be treated as unauthorised. The pupil should comply with the rules and attend.

The academy follows all DfE guidance for searching, screening and confiscation which can be found here: Reference: Searching, screening and confiscation in schools - GOV.UK 

Power to use reasonable force  

Members of staff have the power to use reasonable force to prevent pupils committing an offence, injuring themselves or others, or damaging property, and to maintain good order and discipline in the classroom. Headteachers and authorised school staff may also use such force as is reasonable given the circumstances when conducting a search without consent for knives or weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs, stolen items, tobacco and cigarette papers, fireworks, pornographic images or articles that have been or could be used to commit an offence or cause harm.

The academy follows all DfE guidance for Restrictive interventions, including use of reasonable force, in

schools which can be found here:

Use of reasonable force and other restrictive interventions guidance 

Please also see the Co-op Academies Trust Positive Handling Policy for the process of searching and screening and use of reasonable force (available on the school website).

Mobile Phones / Devices

• Co-op Academy Belle Vue is mobile phone-free environments by default
• Phones and other devices (e.g. tablets, Airpods and Smart watches) must not be seen or heard on the school site between 7.30am and 4.35pm (or after any intervention session after school until the student has left the school grounds).
• Mobile phones / devices must never be seen or heard inside the school building
• All staff should consistently enforce the school’s policy on the use of mobile phones.
• Staff should not use their own mobile phone for personal reasons in front of pupils throughout the school day.
• For sanctions involving a breach of the above, see consequences table in appendix i
• In exceptional and necessary circumstances a pupil may be allowed access to their mobile phone during the school day, where it is necessary due to the nature of their disability. This may be considered a reasonable adjustment supporting the specific needs of the pupil (e.g. Medical). This exception will be rare and will be regularly monitored and reviewed and where reasonable alternatives can be found they should be considered.
• Co-op Academy xxxx will set out and communicate with staff, pupils and parent/carers how they wish to manage the use of mobile phones by pupils on residential trips or trips outside of the normal school day. This will ensure that pupils’ educational experience on a school trip is not disrupted by the presence of mobile phones and should consider prohibiting or restricting their use.

Reference: Mobile phones in schools - GOV.UK 

 Audio and video recording wearables

• In addition to the guidance around mobile phones and smart devices (including tablets and watches) and to meet modern safeguarding and security challenges, Co-op Academy xxxx behavior policy enforces a zero-tolerance, "not seen, not heard, not worn" policy for all audio and video recording wearables across the school site.
• This comprehensive ban specifically targets smartwatches (including children's tracking models with remote audio activation), AI-enabled earbuds (e.g. AirPods Pro 2 capable of live translation or phone-streaming), smart glasses (e.g. Ray-Ban Metas), and clip-on AI badge pins. All such devices must be turned off and stored securely in bags upon arrival at school by students and parents attending for a meeting or school event.

Furthermore, to protect the confidentiality of sensitive discussions and ensure lesson integrity, the school enforces the following protocols:

•  Enforcement: Any broadcast, live-stream, or unauthorised capture of a lesson or school environment will result in immediate device confiscation, parent contact, and significant behavioral sanctions in alignment with the academy's disciplinary procedures.
• Consent & Broadcasting: Capturing audio or video of staff or pupils without explicit consent is strictly handled as a safeguarding breach rather than a minor technology misuse.
• Wearable-Free Zones: All meeting spaces including the SENCO room, Headteacher’s office, and safeguarding meeting spaces are designated strict wearable-free zones for all staff, pupils, parents, and visitors to prevent unauthorized covert recordings.

Appendix I - Coding on Arbor (MIS)

We use Arbor to record behaviour incidents. 

There are eleven categories of behaviour incident to allocate any records to:

1. Disruption to learning
2. Community conduct
3. Bullying
4. Preparation for learning
5. Disrespect to adults
6. Disrespect to children
7. Abusive behaviour (protected characteristics)
8. Fighting, physically aggressive or threatening violence
9. Banned items
10. Dishonesty
11. Truancy

These categories will be reported at Trust levels for purposes of trend and outcomes analysis.

Within each category, there are sub-categories to guide staff in recording accurately:

Appendix ii

Co-op Academy Belle Vue Consequences Tariff

Purpose

We have high expectations of all of our pupils and are committed to creating a safe environment.  When a pupil fails to meet our expectations, it is important that this be corrected so as not to affect other pupils / staff.  This may involve a same day detention or a more severe consequence.  Possible sanctions are outlined below.  Professional judgement is always used on a case-by-case basis.

Appendix iii

Suspension Reintegration Meeting - Co-op Academy Belle Vue

Suspension Reintegration Meeting - Script:

Appendix iv

Graduated Response to Managing Behaviour

Appendix v

Co-op Academy Belle Vue has a graduated approach to wider social inclusion. This supports a collaborative approach to the following areas within school in order to support the needs of a child (SEND, safeguarding, pastoral, attendance and behaviour provision). This is a recognition that whilst most pupils' needs will be met by the universal offer, there may be some pupils who require a more targeted and/or more intensive approach (internal or external).