A Bucks school has been nationally recognised for its approach to pupil behaviour.

Elmhurst School, Aylesbury, has been named a Partner School by When The Adults Change, a programme focused on improving behaviour through positive relationships and consistent practice.

The school attributes its positive behaviour culture to clear expectations, strong relationships, and understanding each child as an individual.

Kirsty Needham, headteacher at Elmhurst, said: "Thanks to Rachel Lee, our Executive Headteacher, the work with Paul Dix was already well embedded when I joined the school six years ago, and she has really been the driving force for it.

"We have strengthened that offer each year to a point whereby we have been recognised as a When The Adults Change Partner School, which is fantastic.

"Through weekly training, modelling, developing our learning space and dedicated teams we have added extra layers, and evolved our approach by looking at the gaps and listening to feedback."

The school has invested in staff development and consistent use of the Paul Dix approach, which aims to make children feel safe, respected, and ready to learn.

At Elmhurst, behaviour support goes beyond enforcing rules to helping children manage emotions, build friendships, and take responsibility.

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Miss Needham said: "I am so proud of our children.

"They are happy, appreciative and care deeply about each other and the staff.

"They work incredibly hard, their attitude is exceptional, and we want them to feel that they are safe and belong.

"Our staff are also amazing.

"They go above and beyond, and are calm, positive and committed.

"Ultimately, it is our people: children and staff, that make our school special."

The Paul Dix approach has been at the core of the school’s behaviour strategy thanks to the leadership of executive headteacher Rachel Lee.

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Elmhurst has built upon this foundation through weekly training, feedback-driven improvements, and the creation of supportive learning environments.

Elmhurst Rewards is one of several daily initiatives that encourage positive behaviour.

Elmhurst Rewards, which include postcards, positive calls, celebration café, Great Learners certificates, attendance bank, and showing learning to the Headteacher, are among the practical daily initiatives underway at the school.