At Beacon Academy, our Coaching programme is at the heart of how we build strong, respectful relationships and ensure every child is known, understood and valued.
All coaching sessions are circle-based, promoting equality of voice, active listening, and shared responsibility – core principles of our restorative and inclusive approach to support students developing a sense of belonging.
Coaching supports our young people to develop relationships, respect, and resilience as well as responsibility for one another.
Our Coaching groups are vertical and consist of around 12 students and one member of staff.
These vertical coaching groups meet with their dedicated coach at least three times per week:
Monday Morning Check-In: to reflect on the weekend and plan for the week ahead in a positive tone. All students. These sessions support students being informed of key events and opportunities happening across the academy, through sharing the Beacon Bulletin and Coach Notes. Students also take part in focusing on the ‘job of the week’ including pathways into different professions.
Wednesday Afternoon Check-Up: students focus on PSHE related topics such as: healthy lifestyles, relationships, living in the wider world and careers. Our House assemblies also take place during the ‘check up’ to promote our house culture.
Friday Afternoon Check-Out: an opportunity to reflect on the week and celebrate achievements. The ‘check out’ is also an opportunity for community builders to support positive relationships amongst coaching groups.
Role of the Coach
The ‘coach’ – the member of staff in each Coaching group – ensures every pupil has a ‘trusted adult ’ to provide ongoing care and encouragement.
The coach has regular contact with parents/carers. Coaches develop strong relationships with pupils’ families, and meet with parents/carers twice a year at ‘Meet Your Coach’ evenings. These evenings (which are in addition to the traditional parents/carers evenings with teaching staff) provide an excellent opportunity to develop strong pastoral relationships between the school and home.
