Thrive
At Otley and Witnesham federated Primary Schools we know that the most important thing for all children is to feel safe and secure. We know that good relationships between staff and pupils helps with this. All this combined helps to make lifelong learners.
Just as we support all children to develop their academic skills, we strongly believe that all children should have the opportunity to learn about their emotions and how they influence our social interactions and ultimately our learning and lives. Every child at Otley and Witnesham, from Reception through to Year 6, will have the chance to develop their social and emotional skills and to learn how their brain works and influences their emotions.
We have adopted a whole school approach to supporting all children with their social and emotional wellbeing and development using the Thrive Approach.
What is Thrive?
Thrive supports children with their emotional health, well-being and social skills, all of which are needed to enable learning to take place. Children sometimes struggle to put their needs into words and as a federation we recognise that behaviour is a form of communication.
The Thrive Approach draws on the latest research into brain science, child development theory and attachment theory. The Thrive approach is based on growing evidence that the brain develops through personal and social interaction. The relationships that we have with significant adults is fundamental to who we grow up to be. Our brain is built through trillions of brain-cell connections made by sight, sound, smell, touch and movement. Positive experiences enhance brain connections, and sustained negative experiences can restrict them. Through simple, repeated activities over time, within a safe and caring environment, Thrive aims to compensate for interruptions in emotional development, when they affect a child’s ability to enjoy life and learn.
How does Thrive benefit our children?
Each and every child is a unique person, constantly developing and learning in different ways and at different rates. The Thrive Approach supports us in identifying emotional, well-being and social needs. Through recognising these, Thrive enables us to make sure all of our pupils have the support they need to reach their full potential.
We recognise that life does not always run smoothly: sometimes unexpected events happen, such as family bereavement or families separating, as well as the usual developmental challenges of friendships, family relationships and challenges at school. Thrive helps our children become more self-assured, capable and adaptive when faced with challenges.
How does it work?
By using the Thrive Approach, we are able to screen whole classes so that teachers can support all children to develop their social and emotional skills at an age appropriate level. Every class has termly thrive targets which are incorporated into a wide range of their curriculum learning.
Following the whole class profiles, if we feel appropriate to do so, we are also able to create individualised support offering tailor made sessions for children. If we feel this would be beneficial, then consent would be gained from the child’s parent or guardian.
What happens in a Thrive session?
The session may be on an individual basis or as part of a small group. During each session there will be an activity which may include:
- Story telling
- Circle games
- Arts and crafts
- Sand play
- Movement and relaxation
- Role play and puppet work
- Games
And many more activities!