Schools secluding students have been asked to stop the practice immediately and to report any previous use of seclusion to their board of trustees and Director of Education their region. The Ministry is supporting schools which have used seclusion in the past to explore other options so that the use of seclusion ceases with immediate effect.
Schools should also contact the Ministry of Education for advice and support if a situation requires the use of physical restraint.
Time out is still an acceptable way to manage student behaviour.
Guidance for New Zealand Schools on Behaviour Management to Minimise Physical Restraint
This guidance will help schools use positive strategies for managing student behaviour. It focuses on preventative and de-escalation techniques with the priority on the wellbeing and safety of both staff and students. It has been developed by a cross-sector advisory group.
- Download the Guidance for New Zealand schools on behaviour management to minimise physical restraint
- Download the Reporting
Behaviour managementtemplates for physical restraint from Behaviour Management Guidance - Download presentation - Guidance for NZ schools
- Letter to schools from The Secretary of Education regarding the use of Seclusion
Training
Understanding Behaviour – Responding Safely is a training package for schools focussing on preventative and de-escalation techniques. It includes a full-day workshop for all staff and ongoing support afterwards. The training can be delivered in modules rather than a full day if this is a better option for your school. Contact your regional Director of Education for further details