Restorative Matters
The Heart of Relationships
What is Restorative Practice?
Why Restorative Matters
Restorative Practice ...
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Provides an open and non-judgmental space for all voices
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Equips students and participants with effective communication skills
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Strengthens emotional intelligence
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Creates a space to welcome and celebrate diversity
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Builds a school or business ethos of mental and emotional wellness
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Provides an excellent opportunity for the school populace to build relationships
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Reduces issues of bullying and conflict by developing a community of equity, interdependence, and respect.
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Can contribute significantly to a student’s academic success
Presenter and Facilitator
All About Brenda
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A restorative practice consultant with a progressive approach to establishing, building, and repairing relationships within school communities.
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Has led numerous Pro-active Circles in school communities
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Has over twenty-five years experience working with youth and educators
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Holds a master's degree with a concentration in restorative practices and certification in restorative justice
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Has led workshops for school boards and the National Restorative Justice Symposium
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An enthusiastic presenter who enjoys facilitating interaction and dialogue
Services
Expertise. Experience. Creativity.
I work with you, providing exceptional consulting services that are catered specifically to your needs.
Take a look below at some of the services I offer and get in touch to achieve immediate results.
Presentations
An hour length presentation introduces the who, what, where, when, why and how of restorative practices that can be customized to address a variety of target audiences; students, parents, educators, school administrators, support staff, and board personnel within school communities. Presentations can be modified to address personnel in corporate environments.
Modelling Pro-active Circles
Engaging Circle conversations preparing staff and students for Circle leadership within their own school communities.
Modelling includes:
· Changing How We Speak
· Teaching and Modelling Effective Communication
· The Ins and Outs of Leading a Pro-active Circle
Workshops
Half-day and full day pro-active Circle training and/or workshops geared to the specific needs of educators, students, principals, support staff, and board personnel.
Topics include:
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The Ins and Outs of Leading a Pro-active Circle
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Effective Communication
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Understanding the Nature of Conflict
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Restorative Versus Retributive Responses
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Building a Restorative Community
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Interested in hearing more on how restorative practices can enhance your school or business community?
Reach out and we can discuss how Restorative Matters!
I have worked with and known Brenda for over 15 years in Eastern Ontario. Brenda's expertise and passion for Restorative Practices is exceptional and I would highly recommend booking Brenda in for your next conference and professional learning day. Brenda is a dynamic speaker and she engages her audience on Restorative Matters which truly is at the heart of education.
Richard James, associate professor, University of Ottawa, faculty of education
I had the good fortune to work alongside Brenda who was instrumental in developing and implementing a restorative practice program in the school community. She is a very innovative and hard-working person, seeking to find solutions where others might not. Establishing a whole-school approach in building a culture of respect and care, Brenda worked closely with staff, students and administration demonstrating how to lead effective communication circles. Our school culture changed as we introduced restorative practices and Brenda’s knowledge, understanding and passion was instrumental in making the difference.
Dave Chaplin, retired teacher and school principal
Brenda is a master at engaging those young people who are most difficult to reach. She can so quickly bring out the best in kids who have their heels dug in, that you are left puzzling over how she did it. It’s only in retrospect that you realize it’s her humour, playfulness and genuine care that invites them to let their best selves shine.
Carol Williams, teacher
Brenda is highly organized, thoughtful, confident, and knowledgeable. Her workshops are lively and engaging, practical and challenging, focused on strengthening healthy connections and positive relationships. She is a dynamic and engaging facilitator and speaker empowering participants to envision 'a culture of care' throughout the school community.
Brian Peters, retired school principal
