Wellbeing

From Shaun Andrews, Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader

The Berry Street Education Model

At our school, we use the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM) to support both student wellbeing and learning.

This approach recognises that children learn best when they feel safe, calm, and connected. Some students may find it harder to concentrate, manage emotions or persist with challenging tasks - especially if they have experienced stress or adversity. BSEM gives teachers practical strategies to support students in these moments, while still maintaining high expectations for learning.

We combine trauma-informed practice with research about how the brain learns best. This means we focus on building strong relationships, creating predictable routines, and teaching in ways that strengthen attention and memory.

Some of the whole-school strategies families may hear about include:

• Morning Circles - A short daily routine where students gather to connect, review expectations and start the day in a calm and positive way.
• Brain Breaks - Short, structured breaks during learning time (2–4 minutes) to help students reset their focus and energy so they are ready to learn again.By supporting regulation, connection, and confidence, we help students feel safe to take on challenges and achieve their personal best; both academically and socially.