What Are Trauma-informed Schools?

I’ve been hearing a lot about trauma-informed schools recently, and I didn’t really know what they were all about. So, I did some quick research online, and now I have a better grasp of the concept. In this blog post, I’d like to share my thoughts on trauma-informed schools.

Trauma-informed schools are educational institutions that have adopted an approach to teaching and student support that recognises and responds to the impact of trauma on students’ lives. This approach is grounded in an understanding of how trauma, whether it’s caused by abuse, neglect, violence, or other adverse experiences, can significantly affect a student’s ability to learn, socialise, and thrive in an educational environment.

I want to share my personal experience with trauma-informed schools, particularly at my previous school: Foxborough Primary School. At Foxborough, we received valuable training on emotional regulation and working with children who have experienced trauma. We introduced various approaches, starting with tools like the mood meter and the RULER approach, and later incorporating the zones of regulation. At Foxborough, we were fortunate to have an Educational Psychologist and a counsellor who worked closely with specific children on a weekly basis, providing essential support. Teachers consistently applied restorative practices, fostering an environment of understanding and growth for all students, especially those who needed it most. This commitment to trauma-informed education made a significant difference in creating a safe and nurturing space for students to thrive.

Here are key principles and practices associated with trauma-informed schools:

1. Understanding Trauma: Trauma-informed schools acknowledge that trauma is prevalent and that its effects can be long-lasting. They educate staff about the signs and symptoms of trauma, fostering empathy and sensitivity toward students who may have experienced trauma.
2. Safety and Trust: Creating a safe and supportive school environment is paramount. This includes physical safety but also emotional and psychological safety. Students need to trust that they can confide in teachers and staff without fear of judgment or retribution.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: Trauma-informed schools recognise that students from diverse backgrounds may experience trauma differently. They strive to be culturally sensitive and responsive to the unique needs of each student.
4. Positive Relationships: Building positive relationships between students, teachers, and staff is a key aspect. Trusting relationships are a buffer against the effects of trauma and can help students feel more secure and supported.
5. Emotional Regulation: Trauma-informed schools teach students emotional regulation techniques to help them manage their emotions in healthy ways, reducing disruptive behaviours and outbursts.
6. Resilience Building: Schools work to foster resilience in students, helping them develop coping skills and the ability to bounce back from adversity.
7. Flexible Discipline: Traditional punitive discipline approaches may not be effective for traumatised students. Trauma-informed schools often adopt restorative justice practices that focus on repairing harm and promoting growth rather than punishment.
8. Holistic Support: Recognising that trauma affects all aspects of a student’s life, these schools often offer comprehensive support services, including access to counsellors, social workers, and mental health professionals.
9. Teacher Training: Educators in trauma-informed schools receive training on recognising trauma symptoms, trauma-sensitive teaching strategies, and how to respond effectively to students who have experienced trauma.
10. Family and Community Involvement: Engaging families and the wider community is crucial in supporting students who have experienced trauma. Collaboration with external resources and support networks is often encouraged.

The aim of trauma-informed schools is to create an environment where every student feels valued, safe, and supported in their learning journey. This approach recognises that addressing the effects of trauma can lead to better academic outcomes, improved mental health, and overall well-being for students.