Trauma Informed Practice

Welcome to Elms School's Approach to Trauma-Informed Practice.

At Elms School, where every student has Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, we are dedicated to creating an environment that nurtures every aspect of our students’ development. We have implemented a comprehensive trauma-informed approach, to ensure that each child receives the personalised care and attention necessary to thrive both academically and emotionally.

At Elms School, we are deeply committed to the principle of "Nurturing to Learn." Our trauma-informed approach ensures that every student receives the level of support they need to flourish. We foster a nurturing, supportive, and safe educational environment where all students with SEMH needs can achieve their full potential. If you have any questions about our approach or how it can benefit your child, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Whole Class Strategies: Support for Every Classroom

Our whole class strategies focus on establishing a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that caters to students with SEMH needs. By integrating trauma-informed practices into our daily routines, we aim to create a stable and safe space that promotes learning and emotional well-being, while actively reducing anxiety and stress.

Key Strategies:

-  Predictable Routines: Consistent daily routines help all students feel more secure and engaged in their learning environment, reducing feelings of anxiety.

-  Inclusive Practices:  Tailored to accommodate the unique learning needs and backgrounds of our students, ensuring everyone feels valued and supported.

-  Mindfulness and Calming Techniques:  Regular sessions of mindfulness and calming exercises are conducted to help students manage stress and develop self-regulation skills.

These foundational practices ensure that our environment is secure and supportive, providing the ideal setting for successful learning and interaction.

Targeted Support for Small Groups 

Small group interventions tailored for students who require more focused support. These sessions are designed to enhance emotional regulation, social skills, and overall resilience in a supportive group setting, significantly reducing anxiety and stress among participants.

Key Interventions: 

-  Targeted Skill Development Groups:  These sessions focus on developing essential skills such as emotional regulation and interpersonal communication.

-  Therapeutic Group Activities:  Utilising art, music, and movement therapies, these groups provide a creative outlet for students to express and manage their emotions.

-  Peer Mentoring and Support Groups:  Structured peer support enhances empathy and understanding among students, strengthening their community bonds.

These interventions are crucial for students who need additional emotional or social support, helping them build resilience and better engage with their peers and the school community.

Personalised, Intensive Support 

Intensive, personalised support for students facing significant trauma-related challenges. These one-on-one interventions are led by Trauma Informed Practitioners and are tailored to the unique needs of each student, focusing on significantly reducing anxiety and stress.

Key Interventions: 

-  Specialised Therapeutic Interventions:  Techniques such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) address the specific effects of trauma.

-  Individual Mentoring Sessions: Sessions offer a safe space for students to process their experiences and emotions.

-  Customised Learning Plans:  Tailored educational strategies are developed to meet the specific academic and emotional needs of each student.

Trauma Informed Schools UK