October 15, 2024
A new initiative aimed at addressing behavioral challenges in schools through restorative justice is underway, with 30 welfare officers undergoing specialized training.
The two-day training, held at the Police Training Centre, is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, facilitated by the Restorative Justice Centre.
The training is designed to help welfare officers implement restorative justice practices in schools, offering an alternative to traditional disciplinary measures like corporal punishment and suspensions.
Senior Welfare Officer at the Ministry of Education, Cornella Leitch, emphasized that the approach requires a paradigm shift in schools, moving towards strategies that focus on understanding and resolving issues constructively.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, Adele Clarke, praised the restorative justice model as a proven method for managing classroom behavior and resolving conflicts.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to create a more supportive and rehabilitative school environment.
Director of the Restorative Justice Centre, Orrin Boston, assured that this training is just the beginning, with additional sessions planned to further equip welfare officers with the tools they need to implement restorative practices effectively.
Restorative justice emphasizes dialogue and understanding, bringing together the victim, perpetrator, and community leaders to work toward resolution and reconciliation.