The Thrive Approach at Winklebury Federation

At Winklebury Federation, we are proud to be a Thrive Approach setting. This means we are committed to supporting the emotional and social development of every child, helping them to become confident, resilient, and ready to learn.

The Thrive Approach is a whole-school initiative grounded in neuroscience, attachment theory, and child development research. It helps us understand the needs that may lie behind a child’s behaviour and respond in ways that support their emotional growth. We believe that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and understood — and that their wellbeing is the foundation for successful learning.

What this looks like in our schools:

• We have three licensed Thrive Practitioners: Mrs Whitehead, Mrs McGookin and Miss Walker, who lead our Thrive provision and support targeted interventions across the federation.

• Children benefit from access to dedicated nurturing spaces including The Nest, the Woodlands Room, and our new Outdoor Pod, each designed to support emotional regulation, reflection and connection.

• Our staff use Vital Relational Functions (VRFs) and follow a PACE approach (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy) to build trusting relationships, co-regulate with children, and respond sensitively to emotional needs.

• All staff are trained in Thrive practices and in our Relational Behaviour Policy, ensuring a consistent, compassionate approach to behaviour and emotional wellbeing.

• Children who need extra support receive regular, personalised Thrive sessions to help them build self-awareness, emotional literacy, and resilience.

By embedding Thrive into the fabric of our school community, we aim to make sure that every child at Winklebury Federation feels safe, valued, and supported. This relational and trauma-informed approach reflects our belief that emotional wellbeing is key to unlocking academic potential and lifelong success.