In this engaging and thought-provoking training for school staff, author and adoptive parent Holly Marlow explores how everyday interactions, routines and responses can have a lasting impact on a child’s sense of safety, connection and belonging. Drawing on real-life stories, honest reflections and practical examples, this session highlights the hidden emotional work some children do simply to get through the school day, and the difference trusted adults can make.

Through interactive activities, delegates will explore how unmet needs can create barriers to learning, and collaborate to develop supportive, trauma-aware responses to a range of scenarios.

Suitable for primary and secondary school staff, SENCOs, safeguarding leads, pastoral teams, school leaders and Virtual School professionals, this training offers fresh perspectives, practical strategies and achievable ideas that can make a significant difference to a child’s experience of school.

What Previous Delegates Say

“Completely changed how I respond to difficult behaviour.“

“The workshop activity helped me finally figure out why we were seeing behavioural struggles in different parts of the school. It makes so much sense now, but I never would have made these connections before!“

“Lots of lightbulb moments I won’t forget.“

Why Schools, MATs and Virtual Schools Choose This Training

Children and young people who have lived through adoption, foster care, kinship care or other early adversity often experience trauma, loss, attachment disruption and shame‑based behaviour. These needs affect learning, relationships, behaviour, attendance and wellbeing.

This practical, evidence‑based training helps education settings embed trauma‑informed, attachment‑aware practice to strengthen inclusion, support vulnerable pupils, and improve their outcomes. It is a high‑impact, compliant investment of ring‑fenced inclusion funding from the Inclusive Mainstream Fund (IMF), Pupil Premium (PP) and Pupil Premium Plus (PP+).

Ready to Strengthen Inclusion and Trauma‑Informed Practice?

Contact Holly Marlow at holly@hollymarlow.com to discuss your school or trust’s needs.