Nurture at St. John's - The National Nurturing Schools Programme

Nurture at St. John's

We have recently introduced a Nurture approach throughout the school using our 3R's approach which brings together our belief in the value of relationships, regulation and restoration. The document below explains in greater detail the key elements guiding our approach:

• 6 Principles of Nurture
• Zones of Regulation
• Restorative Approach and Script

Nurture approaches have been introduced to meet an identified need for support for children experiencing Social Emotional and Mental Health difficulties. Within classroom settings, these difficulties are communicated by children using a range of complex and challenging behaviours that can become a significant barrier to learning. As a result, their relationships for learning and social interactions start to breakdown. Without the necessary skill set, most commonly associated with positive life experiences, children demonstrate low expectations of themselves, their peers and have little trust in adults to help, value, teach and encourage them.  The research supported nurture model, has been identified as an approach that provides consistent, predictable opportunities to build secure emotional attachments. This ensures the children are given equity, enabling them to access the same successful learning opportunities as their peers. Following the 6 Principles of Nurture in the classroom creates an environment that benefits all children.