Supervision Policy

Ballyshannon National School Supervision Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that yard supervision at Ballyshannon National School is effective, consistent, and focused on creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all pupils. This policy supports the implementation of the school’s Code of Behaviour and promotes the values of kindness, safety, and mutual respect.

1. Active Supervision

·  Teachers and support staff on yard duty must wear Hi Vis jackets and Lanyards (printed school rules and list of restorative practice questions) for visibility.

·  Teachers and support staff on yard duty must actively circulate throughout their assigned supervision zones.

·  A strong visible presence is key—staff must avoid gathering in groups or remaining in one place for extended periods.

·  Particular attention should be paid to areas where inappropriate behaviour is more likely (e.g. boundaries, behind sheds or equipment).

2. Proactive Engagement and Intervention

·  Staff are expected to positively engage with children during yard time, fostering positive relationships and deterring inappropriate behaviour.

·  When concerning behaviour is observed or suspected, students should be calmly questioned to understand what occurred and to help guide better choices.

·  Staff will remind children of the school’s expected behaviours, and where necessary, report incidents following school behaviour procedures.

3. Teaching and Reinforcing Positive Behaviour

·  Class teachers have a key role in explicitly teaching and reinforcing the school’s rules and Code of Behaviour throughout the year.

·  These expectations should be integrated into daily routines, modelled by staff, and revisited regularly.

4. Our School Rules

At Ballyshannon National School, our school rules reflect our values and guide all interactions, both in class and in the yard:

1.      We use kind hands and feet.

2.      We speak in the right way, at the right time.

3.      We sit while working, walk while moving.

4.      We are honest and always tell the truth.

5.      We are fair, friendly and let others join in.

These rules are simple, consistent, and clearly communicated to all pupils. They are taught explicitly and referred to regularly to support safe and respectful behaviour at all times.

5. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

Student Voice

Children will be informally questioned during yard time and through classroom activities to gather feedback on:

·  How safe they feel in the yard

·  Peer relationships and inclusion

·  Ideas for improving playtime and social interactions

Staff Feedback

Teachers and support staff will be surveyed regularly to evaluate:

·  What aspects of supervision are working well

·  Common areas of concern or repeated issues

·  Recommendations for enhancing safety and wellbeing

Supervision Review

Based on student and staff feedback, leadership will assess whether:

·  Additional supervision is required

·  Supervision zones need adjusting

·  Targeted supports or interventions are needed

6. Roles and Responsibilities

·  All staff on duty are expected to follow this policy and model expected behaviour.

·  Class teachers are responsible for preparing children for yard expectations and following up after any incidents.

·  School leadership will oversee the implementation, monitoring, and review of this policy.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if required. Input from students and staff will directly inform any updates.

Yard Duty Guidelines and Promoting Positive Behaviour

1. Active Supervision:

·  Teachers and support staff on yard duty must wear Hi Vis jackets and Lanyards (printed school rules and list of restorative practice questions) for visibility

·  Teachers on yard duty must circulate regularly within their designated area of supervision.

·  Be observant and attentive to all student interactions and behaviors.

·  Maintain a visible presence to deter inappropriate behavior.

2. Proactive Intervention:

·  Approach and question students in areas where inappropriate behavior is suspected or likely.

·  Intervene early to prevent escalation and ensure a safe, respectful environment for all.

3. Behavioural Reminders:

·  Remind students of the school’s Code of Behaviour and specific yard rules as needed.

·  Reinforce expectations through calm, clear, and consistent messaging.

4. Teaching and Reinforcement of Rules:

·  Class teachers are responsible for explicitly teaching school rules and the Code of Behaviour.

·  Emphasize core values such as kindness, respect, inclusion, and safety during class discussions and throughout the school day.