PB4L
Positive Behavior For Learning
Evans Bay Intermediate School is a PB4L (Positive Behaviour For Learning) school.
At EBIS, we recognise and celebrate the connection between positive behaviour and showcasing our school values of Whakaute (Respect), Angitūtanga (Success) & Whanaungatanga and learning outcomes. Every day we acknowledge ākonga who show our values by handing out waka cards, a token of recognition that works towards a whole-school reward, highlighting the way in which our actions impact those around us.
We recognise individuals who are showing consistency and growth in one of our three values through a waka slip, which is that next step in positive behaviour. Waka slips lead towards bronze, silver and gold awards which highlight the hard work and consistency of students in displaying and embracing our school values.
To keep all ākonga within our school safe and able to work within a calm learning environment, all staff follow a schoolwide behaviour management plan which is used to investigate behavioural incidents, engage in restorative conversations to repair harm and, when needed, implement fair and logical consequences to ensure that relationships are restored and the mana of every student is upheld. We are proud to be a Positive Behaviour For Learning school and to provide a learning environment where our values are seen, felt and heard.
About PB4L
PB4L is not about changing the students; it’s about changing the environment, systems and practices you have in place to support them to make positive behaviour choices.
PB4L promotes core ethical values as the foundation of positive character. It links values to students’ thinking, feelings, and behaviour. It is a proactive, whole-school approach that embeds PB4L across all aspects of school life. Students are given opportunities to practise moral and responsible behaviour. PB4L supports a meaningful, challenging curriculum that values and enables all learners. PB4L fosters a strong internal commitment to doing what is right. All staff model PB4L values through their actions and interactions.
About Restorative Practices
Staff work with students in a model of Restorative Practice. This is a relational approach to school life grounded in beliefs about equality, dignity, mana and the potential of all people. By building and maintaining positive, respectful relationships within a school, issues are more easily managed. Feedback from New Zealand schools shows us to expect the following outcomes:
a calmer school environment, with less classroom disruption and more time for teaching
an increase in the engagement and learning of students in the classroom
growth in relational and problem-solving skills, both for adults and students across the school community
improvements in attitudes and relationships across the whole school community
a consistent best-practice approach across the whole school community that aligns with the school’s shared values.