Cliffdale Primary Academy: A Relational School
At Cliffdale Primary Academy, we are proud to be a Relational School—a place where relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Our approach is rooted in Restorative Practice, Trauma-Informed Care, and Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, ensuring that every child feels safe, valued, and understood.
Together We Shine
Our vision—Together we persevere and innovate so every child is confident, enjoys learning and develops skills—is brought to life through our values:
- Inspire Engagement
- Build Relationships
- Increase Communication
- Promote Independence
- Encourage Resilience
These values underpin our curriculum, our behaviour ethos, and our daily interactions. They are represented by engaging triangle characters that help children understand and aspire to these qualities in a meaningful way.
Relationships First
We believe that building, maintaining, and repairing relationships is the most important thing we do.
Relationships are not built in a day—they are built daily. Our staff work tirelessly to create a culture of connection, belonging, and community, knowing that strong relationships are the foundation of wellbeing, learning, and happiness.
We use circles—a simple yet powerful tool—to bring people together.
Whether it’s staff reflection, celebration, or problem-solving through Solution Circles, these inclusive spaces foster empathy, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
Understanding Behaviour Through a Relational Lens
At Cliffdale, all behaviour is seen as communication. We don’t punish behaviour—we seek to understand it. Our 5-Step Cycle to Support Behaviour focuses on:
1. Relationships – Creating safe, supportive environments
2. Communication – Listening and responding to every child’s unique voice
3. Engagement – Motivating and connecting through personalised learning
4. Independence – Empowering children to take ownership
5. Resilience – Supporting emotional growth and perseverance
Research and training in areas such as non-violent communication, restorative conversations, and trauma-informed strategies, ensure that every interaction is respectful, empathetic, and solution-focused.
Personalised Support for Every Child
Cliffdale is a school for children with severe and complex learning difficulties, including high levels of autism and communication needs.
Our personalised curriculum is built around each child’s EHCP, with specialist pedagogical approaches and sensory integration support. We work closely with families to ensure learning is meaningful and life-enhancing.
Our relational approach extends to our families, with Family Support Workers, coffee mornings, and inclusive events that build trust and community. We know that strong relationships with families are key to improving outcomes for children.
Empowering Staff Through Relational Leadership
Staff wellbeing and professional growth are central to our ethos. We use a high challenge, high support model to empower staff—ensuring that expectations are clear and
aspirational, while providing the coaching, resources, and emotional support needed to thrive. Weekly staff circles, coaching sessions, and lightning talks offer opportunities for reflection, collaboration, and celebration of practice.
Children Connecting Through Team Time
As part of our relational ethos, Team Time is a weekly session designed to help children build relationships and a sense of belonging beyond their immediate class.
Supported by staff, children engage in shared activities that foster connection, communication, and community across the school.
A Culture of Kindness
We are committed to making common sense common practice. We smile, we listen, we care.
We know that empathy drives connection, and we work every day to build a school where everyone—children, staff, and families—can flourish.