SEMH and Mental Health

Supporting social, emotional, and mental wellbeing for every learner

Trauma-informed and relational practice

NT&AS understands that social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs can impact learning, behaviour, and wellbeing. Our approach integrates:

  • Professional Caring Relationships (PCR): A relational, non-punitive model that builds trust, supports co-regulation, and addresses the underlying needs behind behaviour

  • Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Staff are trained to recognise signs of distress, provide immediate support, and refer appropriately

  • Trauma-informed practice: Understanding the link between adverse childhood experiences and emotional responses, enabling teachers to respond with compassion, patience, and structure

Through this integrated approach, young people feel safe, understood, and supported to engage with learning and develop resilience.

A young boy in a red sweater and black pants kneeling and playing with a colorful city-themed playmat with toy cars.
A young boy with light brown hair, wearing a gray and navy blue hoodie, is lying on a polished wooden table and working on a worksheet with a yellow pencil.

Examples of impact

Our tailored SEMH support has helped young people to:

  • Re-engage with learning after prolonged absence due to anxiety or trauma

  • Build confidence in managing emotions, developing self-regulation and coping strategies

  • Achieve academic success alongside improved social and emotional wellbeing

Success story: A Year 11 student with severe anxiety and school refusal engaged in 1:1 PCR sessions, gradually returning to full-time education while achieving five GCSEs, demonstrating both academic and personal growth.

Child wearing a white shirt working on a colorful educational worksheet with pictures and words, with a yellow pen in her right hand and an orange pen in her left hand.

Multi-layered support

NT&AS staff collaborate closely with families, schools, and external agencies to provide:

  • Individualised support plans addressing SEMH needs

  • Coordinated strategies between home, school, and therapeutic services

  • Guidance and training for teachers and carers to maintain consistency and promote wellbeing

Our focus is always on understanding behaviour, supporting emotional regulation, and promoting positive mental health outcomes.

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Take the next step

Discover our Trauma-Informed Practice →
Explore how NT&AS applies trauma-informed and relational approaches across all our education and support services.

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