Trauma Informed Practice
NT&AS acknowledges the powerful link between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and developmental trauma.
Many of the young people we support have faced significant adversity — instability, loss, or unsafe environments that affect how they think, feel, and learn.
Through our trauma-informed approach, we aim to replace blame and shame with understanding and compassion. Behaviour is seen as communication — a reflection of unmet needs or difficulties in self-regulation — not as deliberate defiance.
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Understanding Trauma
Safety, regulation and relationships at the heart of learning
“The same sponge-like properties that enable our brain to absorb experiences such as language in the first three years of life also absorb chaos, threats and fear.”
— Dr Bruce D. Perry
Professional Caring Relationships (PCR)
At the centre of our model are Professional Caring Relationships. These are the foundation for trust, safety, and positive change.
NT&AS teachers and staff work collaboratively with families, carers, and professionals to create environments where young people feel safe to learn and express themselves.
We focus on:
Building predictable, trusting relationships
Co-regulation and emotional safety before academic challenge
Understanding the “why” behind behaviour
Supporting positive change through consistency, empathy and structure
Safe Spaces for Learning
Our teachers are trained to recognise and respond to trauma-related behaviours. Through adaptive, one-to-one teaching and a calm, responsive approach, they create conditions for learning and recovery — helping young people feel secure enough to engage and achieve. Reasonable adjustments are made to the learning environment and teaching style to ensure every learner can participate fully and successfully.
Informed, Intelligent and Compassionate
We believe that wellbeing and learning go hand in hand. The key to encouraging both lies in informed, intelligent, and compassionate practice — where every teacher understands the impact of trauma and adapts accordingly.
This understanding shapes our daily work across NT&AS and underpins all specialist areas of expertise.
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Explore how trauma-informed practice supports our teachers, young people, and partner professionals.