AYA is a therapeutically informed educational environment.

We understand that behaviour is often a form of communication and that young people need safety, trust and consistency before they can fully engage with learning. Our staff work to build strong, respectful relationships that help pupils feel secure, supported and ready to learn.

We recognise that a young person’s ability to learn can be influenced by emotional wellbeing, experiences, relationships, sense of safety and perception of themselves as a learner.

Our approach includes:

• relational practice;
• emotionally attuned responses;
• predictable routines;
• strengths-based practice;
• emotional literacy;
• opportunities for reflection;
• restorative approaches;
• trusted adult relationships;
• family partnership; and
• appropriate specialist interventions.