Relational Behaviour Approach

Building Positive Relationships for Success

At River Tyne Academy, we believe that positive relationships are the foundation of learning, wellbeing, and personal growth. Our Relational Behaviour Approach is centred on understanding, supporting, and empowering young people to develop the skills they need to regulate their emotions, make positive choices, and achieve success both in and beyond the classroom. 

As an alternative provision, we recognise that behaviour is often a form of communication. Rather than focusing solely on the behaviour itself, we seek to understand the reasons behind it and work alongside pupils to identify their needs, build trust, and develop effective coping strategies. 

Our approach is rooted in Attachment Aware and Trauma-Informed practice, recognising that many pupils may have experienced challenges that affect their emotional wellbeing, relationships, and engagement with learning. We create safe, consistent, and supportive environments where pupils feel valued, understood, and able to thrive. 

Understanding Behaviour

At River Tyne Academy, we view behaviour as communication. When a pupil experiences difficulties in managing their emotions or behaviour, we work to understand what they may be trying to communicate and how we can best support them. 

Through positive relationships, restorative conversations, and personalised support, we help pupils to: 

• Develop emotional awareness and self-regulation skills. 

• Build resilience and confidence. 

• Improve communication and social interaction skills. 

• Strengthen positive relationships with peers and adults. 

• Make informed and responsible choices. 

• Re-engage successfully with learning. 

A Graduated Approach to Support

We recognise that every pupil’s needs are unique. Our support is delivered through a graduated and personalised approach to ensure that pupils receive the right level of intervention at the right time. 

Tier 1: Universal Support

All pupils benefit from: 

• Positive and predictable routines. 

• High expectations delivered through supportive relationships. 

• Personal Development and wellbeing programmes. 

• Emotional literacy and self-regulation strategies. 

• Adaptations and support to meet individual needs. 

Tier 2: Specialists in the Trust (SIT) Targeted Intervention

Where additional support is required, pupils may access: 

• Individual mentoring and coaching. 

• Small-group interventions. 

• Therapeutic and wellbeing programmes. 

• Support from specialist staff across the Trust. 

Tier 3: External Specialist Support

For pupils with more complex needs, we work closely with families and external professionals to provide coordinated support. This may include involvement from mental health services, counselling providers, educational specialists, and other partner agencies. 

The Impact

Our Relational Behaviour Approach helps pupils feel safe, understood, and supported. By focusing on relationships, wellbeing, and personal growth, we help young people develop the confidence, resilience, and self-regulation skills needed to engage positively with education and life. 

We want every pupil at River Tyne Academy to experience success, build positive relationships, and develop the skills they need to become confident, responsible, and independent young adults.