Community Expectations
Living our values everyday
At St Richard’s Catholic College, we are proud to be a school community built on kindness, respect and a shared commitment to helping one another flourish.
Our Community Expectations reflect the way we choose to live and learn together. Rooted in our Catholic values of Community, Knowledge and Charity, they help to create a calm, safe and purposeful environment where every pupil feels valued and supported.
These expectations are not simply rules; they are shared commitments that guide daily life at St Richard’s and ensure that our school remains a place of dignity, belonging and high standards for all.
Further Information
Positive Behaviour and Relationships
Strong relationships are at the heart of life at St Richard’s. We want every pupil to feel respected, valued and safe.
We ask pupils to:
- Speak and act with kindness and consideration
- Respect differences and celebrate the diversity within our community
- Allow others to learn without disruption
- Act responsibly — in school and online
Expectations apply both within school and beyond the school gates where behaviour affects the safety, wellbeing or reputation of our community.
We are clear that bullying, discrimination or unkind behaviour are not acceptable. When concerns are raised, they are always taken seriously and handled with care, fairness and consistency.
If a pupil experiences or witnesses behaviour that causes concern, they should speak to a trusted adult — such as their Form Tutor, Pastoral Leader or any member of staff. Parents and carers are also encouraged to contact us directly so we can work together to resolve concerns.
Pupils can also report concerns confidentially through Whisper, our online reporting system.
Wearing the correct uniform and presenting themselves smartly are also part of our shared expectations, reflecting pride in belonging to St Richard’s. Full guidance can be found on our Uniform page.
For full details on positive behaviour, please see our Pastoral Care & Behaviour Management Policy and Anti-Bullying Policy on the Statutory Information page.
Rewards and Recognition
We believe that effort, kindness and service should be recognised and celebrated.
Pupils may receive:
- House points
- Certificates and awards
- Leadership opportunities
- Positive communication home
Celebrating achievement strengthens our culture of encouragement and shared success.
Movement Around School and Break Times
We expect pupils to move around the school calmly and respectfully, showing consideration for others at all times.
During break and lunch times, pupils are expected to:
- Remain within permitted areas
- Follow staff instructions
- Respect school property and the environment
These expectations help to maintain a safe and welcoming atmosphere across the school site.
Support and Consequences
When expectations are not met, our response is supportive and purposeful.
We work with pupils — and in partnership with families — to help them reflect, take responsibility and make positive choices moving forward. Consequences are applied consistently and fairly, in line with school policy.
In more serious cases, sanctions may include detentions or suspension, always guided by our commitment to the dignity and wellbeing of each pupil.
Full procedural detail is available in our Pastoral Care & Behaviour Management Policy which can be found on the Statutory Information page.
Attendance and Punctuality
Regular attendance and punctuality are essential for successful learning.
Pupils are expected to:
- Arrive on time for school and lessons
- Be prepared with the correct equipment
- Engage positively throughout the day
Further details are available in our Attendance Policy, which can be found on the Statutory Information page.
Safety, Valuables and Mobile Phones
The safety and wellbeing of every pupil is central to school life at St Richard’s.
To maintain a calm and focused learning environment:
- Mobile phones are not permitted during the school day
- Prohibited or unsafe items must not be brought onto school premises
- Valuables should not be brought into school unnecessarily
Clear expectations are communicated to pupils and families to ensure consistency and fairness.
Further information can be found in our Behaviour and Safeguarding policies which can be found on the Statutory Information page.
Travel To and From School
Public Transport
Many of our pupils travel to and from school using public transport. When doing so, pupils represent St Richard’s within the wider community.
We expect pupils to:
- Conduct themselves respectfully
- Follow the guidance of transport providers
- Show consideration to members of the public
High standards of behaviour beyond the school gates reflect the values of our community.
Bicycles
Pupils who cycle to school must do so safely and responsibly.
Bicycles should be secured in designated areas, and pupils are expected to follow safe road practices at all times.
The school cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to bicycles brought onto site.