At our school, we recognise that some children and young people may experience traumatic events that can have a significant impact on their feelings, behaviour, wellbeing and learning. We are committed to providing a safe, understanding and supportive environment where every student feels valued and listened to.

A traumatic event can be anything that is frightening, overwhelming or distressing. This may include bereavement, serious accidents, illness, violence, abuse, family difficulties, community incidents, or other significant life events. Every young person responds differently, and what affects one person deeply may affect another in a different way.

What Might Students Experience?

Following a traumatic event, young people may experience a range of emotions and reactions, including:

  • Feeling worried, anxious, frightened or unsafe
  • Difficulty concentrating in lessons
  • Changes in mood, including anger, sadness or irritability
  • Withdrawal from friends, family or activities they usually enjoy
  • Fatigue, poor sleep or nightmares
  • Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach aches
  • Avoiding reminders of the event
  • Feeling overwhelmed by emotions

These responses are often normal reactions to an abnormal and distressing experience. Recovery takes time, and progress is not always straightforward.

How We Support Students

Our staff understand the importance of providing consistent, compassionate and trauma-informed support.

We aim to:

  • Create safe and predictable routines
  • Build positive and trusting relationships
  • Listen without judgement
  • Support students to regulate emotions and manage stress
  • Work closely with parents, carers and external professionals where appropriate
  • Provide pastoral, wellbeing and safeguarding support
  • Help students remain engaged with learning while recognising individual needs
  • Research shows that calm, caring adults and supportive relationships can make a significant difference to a young person's recovery and wellbeing.

Guidance for Parents and Carers

As a parent or carer, you play an important role in helping your child feel safe and supported.

Helpful strategies include:

Maintain Routine - where possible, keep regular routines around school attendance, meals, activities and sleep. Familiar routines can help young people feel secure.

Listen and Reassure - allow your child to talk if they want to, but avoid pressuring them. Let them know their feelings are valid and that they can come to you when they are ready.

Be Honest and Age Appropriate - provide clear and truthful information using language your child can understand. This can help reduce uncertainty and anxiety.

Spend Time Together - enjoying everyday activities, hobbies and positive family time can support recovery and strengthen feelings of connection and safety.

Look After Yourself - supporting a child after a traumatic event can be challenging. Seeking support for yourself can help you better support your child.

Advice for Students

If something upsetting or frightening has happened, remember:

  • You are not alone.
  • What you are feeling is important.
  • It is okay to ask for help.
  • Talking to a trusted adult can make a difference.
  • Recovery takes time, and everyone heals at their own pace.

You may wish to speak to:

  • Your Form Tutor
  • Head of Year
  • Pastoral Support Team
  • School Counsellor
  • Safeguarding Team
  • A parent, carer or trusted family member

When Additional Help May Be Needed

While many young people recover with support from family, friends and school, some may need additional professional help.

Please contact the school if you are concerned that your child is:

  • Continuing to struggle over an extended period
  • Experiencing significant distress
  • Finding it difficult to attend school or engage in daily activities
  • Showing major changes in mood or behaviour
  • Expressing worries about their safety or wellbeing
  • We can work with families and external agencies to identify appropriate support.

Further Information and Resources

For further evidence-based advice and resources, visit the UK Trauma Council:

uktraumacouncil.org/

The UK Trauma Council provides expert guidance for parents, carers, schools and professionals supporting children and young people following traumatic experiences.

Need Support?

If you have concerns about your child or would like advice, please contact the school's Pastoral Team or Safeguarding Team. We are here to help and support every student to feel safe, understood and able to thrive.