The Thrive Approach & Family Thrive

The Thrive Approach

At Laleham Gap School, we believe that children learn best when they feel safe, understood and emotionally secure. That is why we have invested in The Thrive Approach as a key part of our wellbeing provision.

The Thrive Approach is an evidence-based, trauma-sensitive framework that draws on neuroscience, attachment theory and child development research to support children's social and emotional development. It helps practitioners understand the reasons behind behaviour and respond in ways that build emotional wellbeing, resilience and positive relationships.

Many children and young people experience interruptions in their emotional development due to life experiences, additional needs or challenges they encounter. Thrive helps us identify these gaps and provide targeted support through positive relationships, play-based activities and therapeutic approaches that are carefully matched to each child's developmental needs.

At Laleham Gap School, Thrive is more than an intervention. It is part of our culture. Our licensed Thrive Practitioners and Wellbeing Team work alongside teachers and support staff to create an environment where children feel valued, connected and ready to learn. Through this approach, we help pupils to:

• Develop emotional regulation skills
• Build confidence and resilience
• Improve relationships with others
• Understand and communicate their feelings
• Feel safer and more successful in school
• Engage more positively with learning

By helping children develop strong emotional foundations, we can support both their wellbeing and their long-term success.

Family Thrive

We know that parents and carers are the most important people in a child's life. The strategies that support children in school are often most effective when they are understood and shared at home. That is why we run Family Thrive for Parents and Carers.

Family Thrive is a six-session programme designed to help families understand The Thrive Approach and how emotional development influences behaviour, relationships and wellbeing. It provides practical strategies that parents and carers can use at home to strengthen relationships and support their child's emotional development.

During the course, parents and carers explore topics including:

• How children's brains develop
• The connection between behaviour and emotional needs
• The importance of relationships, play and creativity
• Supporting children through times of change and difficulty
• Managing everyday challenges and trigger moments
• Building calm, connected family relationships

Our first Family Thrive course took place in Spring 2025 and received very positive feedback from participating families. Since then, we have continued to develop and expand the programme as part of our commitment to supporting the whole family, not just the child.

Family Thrive helps to build a consistent approach between home and school, giving parents valuable insight into emotional development while providing practical tools, strategies and opportunities to connect with other families.

We will be running new cohorts of Family Thrive in Term 2 of 2026-2027. If you would like to find out more about Family Thrive or express an interest in upcoming courses, please contact the school office.