Attachment Aware and Trauma-Informed Settings

Attachment influences young people’s school success. This is true of young people’s attachment to their parents, as well as to their teachers. Secure attachment is associated with higher grades, greater emotional regulation, social competence and willingness to take on challenges. Enhancing teacher-student relationships is fundamental to raising achievement (Bergin & Bergin, 2009).

The majority of young people benefit from secure attachments with their primary caregivers and experiences in their family that support them to feel a sense of safety. However, for a minority of young people significant challenges within their early years can create a risk of insecure attachments developing and some may experience trauma.

Understanding the role of attachment in schools and the pervasive impact of trauma on young people’s development is essential to creating safe learning environments where all students can thrive.

We recognise that becoming attachment aware and trauma-informed is a journey. Rotherham Virtual School support schools on this journey through our contributions in Personal Education Plan (PEP) meetings, consultations, network meetings and training and development opportunities. Contact us for more information on how we can support your setting.