Trauma Informed Care in Education Specialisation

About this Specialisation

Recent advancements in neuroscience research have identified the physical impact that trauma and abuse can have on children’s developing brains and the links between exposure to these circumstances and difficulties in learning.

Current research suggests that one in four children will have been exposed to a traumatic event before their third birthday. Given these alarming statistics, educators in all sectors need to be aware and informed about trauma, abuse, and neglect and the possible impact on the lives and learning of children, aged from birth through to 18 years. This trauma response will impact children’s development, behaviour and learning in multiple contexts across Australia and internationally. Given that early learning settings and schools are where children spend a considerable amount of time each day with teachers/educators, those who are trauma-informed and attuned to the social and emotional wellbeing difficulties that children and young people living with trauma may experience can proactively provide effective trauma-responsive support. Such a response will positively assist children’s development, behaviour and learning in multiple contexts across Australian and international early learning and school environments.