The Walsall Virtual School Attachment and Trauma Aware Schools Award is a free 12-month school improvement programme designed to help schools develop a greater awareness and understanding of attachment and trauma.

The programme recognises that children who have experienced adversity, trauma, loss or disrupted relationships often need adults who understand the reasons behind their behaviour and can respond with empathy, consistency and appropriate support. By increasing staff awareness and confidence, schools can create environments where children feel safe, develop positive relationships and are better able to engage in learning.

The programme is delivered free of charge by the Walsall Virtual School and supports schools over a 12-month period.

Each school begins by completing a whole-school Attachment and Trauma Audit, which helps identify existing strengths alongside areas for development. The findings from the audit are then used to develop a bespoke Action Research Project, enabling the school to focus on an area that will have the greatest impact for its pupils.  

Throughout the programme, schools receive ongoing guidance, professional development and practical support from members of the Walsall Virtual School team as they implement and evaluate their project.

Schools participating in the programme receive:

• A whole-school Attachment and Trauma Audit.
• Free whole-school training delivered by the Walsall Virtual School.
• Ongoing advice, coaching and support throughout the programme.
• Access to networking opportunities with other schools.
• Support to design and deliver a bespoke Action Research Project.
• Recognition through our Attachment and Trauma Aware Schools Award.

Schools are recognised for their commitment to developing attachment and trauma awareness through four levels of accreditation:

• Bronze
• Silver
• Gold
• Platinum

Each award celebrates the progress schools make in developing staff awareness, strengthening practice and improving support for children and young people

If you are interested in taking part in the programme please contact the Virtual School