Staff at Nyland Primary School, part of The White Horse Federation, are pleased to have received a Bronze ARC (Attachment and Relationship-Centred Award) from The Attachment Research Community in recognition of their work to support children who have faced adversity.
The ARC Award recognises staff who are trained to support children who have experienced adversity, ensuring that every child feels, safe, seen, support and valued. It is awarded to schools that have successfully included practices which are trauma-informed and relationship-focused throughout school activities to support children’s wellbeing.
Nyland Primary is a specialist primary school supporting children with social, emotional and mental health needs. Staff worked closely with Gemma Meiklejohn, Headteacher of Swindon Virtual School, to achieve the Bronze award.
Reflecting on this achievement, Georgina Birkett, Associate Head and SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) at Nyland Primary School, said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to have received this award, and we have really appreciated all the positive comments, feedback, and messages from our school community following this.
“Our vision is to continue embedding the ARC principles throughout our school as we work towards achieving the Silver Award, and ultimately the Gold. To support this journey, we will provide ongoing professional development, including training and reflective spaces, to help staff deepen their understanding and application of ARC practices.
“We also aim to strengthen partnerships with families and external agencies, ensuring a consistent and nurturing environment for every child. This collaborative approach will help us sustain trauma-informed, relationship-centred practices that place the wellbeing of children at the heart of everything we do.”