Trauma Informed
Beecroft Academy has undertaken whole-school training to ensure all staff; from teachers and teaching assistants to office, cleaning, and catering staff, realise the widespread impact of trauma, recognise its signs, and can respond with empathy and support, actively working to resist re-traumatisation.
Trauma-Informed Support
Our training focuses on integrating the following principles into our daily practice:
Safety (Physical and Emotional)
We prioritise a consistent, predictable and physically and emotionally safe environment. We use clear, consistent routines (visual timetables, predictable lesson structures) and designated 'Regulation Zones' (including a Sensory Room) where pupils can go when overwhelmed to help their nervous system settle.
Trustworthiness and Transparency
We build trust with pupils through honesty and consistency. We ensure staff give clear expectations and consequences and are transparent about changes or upcoming events to reduce anxiety.
Choice
Trauma often strips away a child's sense of control. Providing meaningful choices helps rebuild their sense of autonomy and self-efficacy. We ensure staff give structured choices in learning ("Would you like to write or draw your answer?" or "Would you prefer to work alone or with a partner?") and in regulation ( "Do you need a short break now or in five minutes?").
Collaboration
We believe in working with the pupil, not doing things to them. This breaks down power imbalances and empowers them to be part of the solution. We engage pupils in restorative conversations after a behavioural incident and actively seek their voice in their support plan.
Positive Approach
We focus on our pupil's strengths, resilience and skills. We use positive affirmations, celebrating small successes (academic or relational) and teach specific social and emotional skills (like deep breathing or using 'I' statements) to enhance their self-regulation.
School Culture
We recognise that connection with peers can be healing and that trauma can be experienced differently based on cultural or historical context. We ensure our school environment is respectful of all cultural, historical and gender differences.
Emotionally Available Adults
Our staff understand the value of emotionally available adults - an adult who is present, attuned and responsive to a child's needs and emotional state. This consistent presence provides the secure base a child needs to venture out and learn, knowing they can return for support when distressed.