Positive Behaviour Support

Positive Communication and Behaviour Support Team (PCBS Team)

Supporting Every Child to Communicate, Thrive and Succeed

Behaviour co-ordinator: James Lyons

At Arbour Vale School, we believe that all behaviour is a form of communication. Our Positive Communication and Behaviour Support Team (PCBS Team) works alongside pupils, families and staff to help every child develop the communication, emotional regulation and social skills they need to engage successfully in school and beyond.

The team promotes a proactive, positive and person-centred approach that focuses on understanding each pupil’s individual strengths, needs and motivations. Rather than simply responding to behaviours of concern, we work to understand why they occur and how we can support pupils to communicate their needs more effectively.

What Does the PCBS Team Do?

The Positive Communication and Behaviour Support Team:

  • Provides targeted support for pupils and classes requiring additional communication or behaviour intervention.
  • Works with staff to develop positive, consistent and effective support strategies.
  • Helps pupils develop communication, self-regulation, independence and social interaction skills.
  • Supports the implementation of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) approaches across the school.
  • Identifies barriers to learning and participation and develops practical solutions.
  • Helps create communication-friendly and autism-friendly learning environments.
  • Monitors outcomes and ensures interventions have a positive impact on pupils’ wellbeing and progress.
  • Works closely with families, therapists and external professionals to ensure a joined-up approach.

Our Approach

The team uses Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) principles, which focus on:

  • Understanding the purpose or function of behaviour.
  • Promoting positive communication and interaction.
  • Teaching new skills and coping strategies.
  • Making reasonable adjustments to environments and routines.
  • Reducing anxiety and barriers to learning.
  • Improving quality of life and participation for pupils.

Our aim is always to support pupils in a respectful, dignified and inclusive way that values their individuality.

Working with Families

Parents and carers are a vital part of their child’s support network. We work collaboratively with families to:

  • Share successful strategies between home and school.
  • Gain a better understanding of pupils’ strengths, interests and needs.
  • Celebrate progress and achievements.
  • Support consistency across different environments.
  • Provide guidance where communication or behaviour challenges arise.

We believe that the best outcomes are achieved when school and home work together in partnership.

How Support is Accessed

Support may be provided through:

  • Whole-class strategies.
  • Small group interventions.
  • Individual pupil support.
  • Staff coaching and training.
  • Consultation with parents and professionals.
  • Observation and assessment of communication and behaviour needs.

Referrals are coordinated through class teams, Phase Leaders and the Positive Communication and Behaviour Support Team.

Our Commitment

The Positive Communication and Behaviour Support Team is committed to helping every pupil feel understood, valued and successful. By promoting positive communication, emotional wellbeing and meaningful participation, we aim to create an environment where all learners can thrive and achieve their full potential.

If you would like further information about the team’s work, please contact the school office or speak with your child’s class teacher.