Cromer Road Primary School

Barnet Trauma Informed Project

Trauma Informed CareCromer Road Primary School is part of a Trauma Informed School project collaborating with The Virtual School, Educational Psychologists, and Advisory Teachers from Barnet. The project works with several Primary and Secondary schools in Barnet.

Trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as highly stressful or threatening. Trauma is an emotional wound that may be linked to a single event or a series of adverse experiences over time. While unique to the individual, generally the experience of trauma can cause lasting effects on their well being, relationships, learning and physical health (definition adapted from Gov.uk working definition of trauma informed practice Nov 2022).

“A trauma informed school recognises the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery. It recognises the signs and symptoms of trauma for children, families, staff and visitors, and responds by integrating knowledge about trauma into practice, policies and procedures” (adapted from SAMHSA).

Underpinning all of this is a commitment to establishing practice that emphasises safety, relationships, respect, and repair. Informed by psychology and evidence-based practice, schools will take part in a programme of activities including training, research projects, policy development, gathering the views of the school community and ongoing reflection. This will support them on their journey to developing trauma informed practice in their settings. 

BELS and the Virtual School are committed to all schools in Barnet one day becoming trauma informed and leading to improved outcomes and well being for all. 

Cromer Road Primary is also a member of The Attachment Research Community (ARC). As members of the ARC community, we support everyone's attachment needs by:

  • Promoting inclusion and preventing exclusion
  • Developing effective strategies to support children and adults
  • Providing high quality training for everyone in our setting
  • Sharing our learning with the ARC network.