Attachment & Trauma

Attachment, Trauma Awareness & Inclusion

Belonging comes first; children are Seen, Safe, Secure and Soothed

At St Patrick’s, every child is valued for who they are. We believe children learn and grow best when they feel safe, understood, and cared for. Our ethos is rooted in attachment-aware and trauma-informed practice, helping every pupil feel a strong sense of belonging in our school family.

Understanding Attachment & Trauma

Attachment is the deep emotional bond that forms between a child and their main caregivers. When children experience consistent love, care, and safety, they develop secure attachments. This helps them feel confident, manage emotions, and build positive relationships.

Trauma happens when a child experiences overwhelming stress, loss, neglect, or instability. This can make them feel unsafe, worried, or unsure about trusting others. Trauma doesn’t just affect emotions, it can also impact a child’s brain development, behaviour, and ability to learn.

Life experiences shape how children see the world, how they learn, and how they build relationships. We understand that all behaviour is a form of communication. By being attachment-aware and trauma-informed, our staff respond with empathy, consistency, and care, helping children feel secure and ready to learn.

How We Support Children

At St Patrick’s, we put relationships first. We make sure that every child has trusted adults they can talk to and the support they need to thrive. Our approach includes:

  • Nurture UK – creating nurturing classroom environments that support children’s emotional and social development.
  • Thrive Approach – using targeted activities and strategies to build resilience and meet individual emotional needs.
  • My Happy Mind – teaching children about wellbeing, resilience, and self-care so they develop lifelong skills for happiness and confidence.
  • NHS Mental Health in Schools Team – providing expert guidance and support for children’s mental health and wellbeing.

Together, these programmes help us provide a safe, consistent, and supportive experience for all our pupils.

Inclusion in Practice

Inclusion means that every child feels they belong. We:

  • Celebrate diversity and the uniqueness of every child.
  • Provide tailored support for children with SEND and additional needs.
  • Offer nurture groups and safe spaces for children who need extra emotional support.
  • Work closely with families and outside agencies to reduce barriers to learning.

Our goal is simple: for every child to feel accepted, valued, and able to flourish; academically, socially, and emotionally.

Working Together With Families

We believe the best outcomes happen when schools and families work in partnership. We:

  • Listen carefully to parents’ and carers’ voices.
  • Share clear and open communication about children’s progress and wellbeing.
  • Provide guidance and signpost families to wider support services when needed.

Together, we create a strong foundation of trust, belonging, and growth.

Voices of Our Community

“I feel safe here because teachers understand me.” – Pupil

“The school has given my child the support they need to shine.” – Parent

“Relationships come first — that’s what makes our school special.” – Staff Member

Resources for Families

Our Commitment

At St Patrick’s, we see the whole child – their challenges, their strengths, hopes, and potential. With compassion and consistency, we walk alongside every learner, supporting them to grow in confidence, resilience, and happiness.

Every child belongs. Every child matters. Every child can thrive.