What is Thrive?

The Thrive Approach is a dynamic, trauma-informed approach designed to meet the emotional and social needs of children and young people. It is informed by neuroscientific research (studies of the brain), and is underpinned by child development theory, attachment theory and research into creativity, play and the arts. It is used in more than 2800 schools and settings.

Fundamental to the Approach is the finding from neuroscientific research that children’s brains develop in response to their experiences in relationships. This means that if we want to support optimal development in children, we need to understand their specific social and emotional needs at each age and then provide them with the right set of experiences and relationships to meet those needs. Below is a leaflet published by Thrive to give parents more information about the approach.

How is Thrive used at Hilperton School?

Thrive provides us with training, resources and an online tool (Thrive-Online) to help us better understand the needs of our pupils and provide them with targeted, effective support. Thrive is not just for children with SEND. Thrive is used to support all children at Hilperton. This could be through whole class teaching, targeted group work or individual support. It is a relational approach, so it underpins all our interactions with children and the whole school community.

Our licensed Thrive Practitioner is Mrs. Sawyer. She works with groups and individuals to support their wellbeing. She also assists staff to deliver the Thrive Approach across the school community.