A Relational Approach

A safe place to feel accepted, listened to and happy

“For a person to grow, they need an environment that provides them with genuineness, acceptance, and empathy. Without these, relationships and healthy personalities will not develop as they should, much like a tree will not grow without sunlight and water” (Carl Rodgers). 

Self-worth – Resilience – Purpose

A Relational Approach

We are extremely proud of our trauma informed approach which is firmly embedded in all that we do at Corfe Valley. All our staff are highly trained and use a relational and restorative approach which is demonstrated in every daily interaction. Our unique setting offers an opportunity for our children and young people to be out in nature and with animals. Our whole ethos is rooted in trauma informed practice and PACE which is at the core of all that we do where we use attunement, validation, curiosity and empathy. It is through this approach that we can help transform the educational, social and emotional experiences of our young people. 

 

A Sense of Belonging

Most importantly our young people feel a sense of belonging. They feel accepted and they learn to trust adults again in a safe environment. Through this our young people are able to develop emotional resilience, which, is the platform for academic and social progress. Every young person is valued at Corfe Valley and they know this.

How does this look at Corfe Valley?

  • All staff are committed to professional development and keep up to date with current research. 
  • All children and young people are supported through our collective understanding of child development, attachment, adverse childhood experiences and neuroscience.
  • No judgements
  • An emotionally available and trusted adult is always available to talk with our children and young people
  • We are trustworthy, honest and transparent.
  • We are genuine and really care and invest in our young people. 
  • We are authentic. 
  • We use appropriate banter and playfulness! This can help to strengthen relationships and respect, helping children and young people to feel secure and accepted which then subsequently develops their self-esteem. Self-esteem is the gateway to being confident. This is the power of banter and appropriate playfulness. 

Emotional Connection – Consistency – Unconditional Positive Regard

Our Approach

Our relational approach draws on theory and research from the fields of neuroscience, attachment, trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Restorative Approaches. 

be included

An ethos based on inclusivity & compassion benefiting the well-being of our young people.

Belonging

All children and young people wish to belong. We use child centred approaches where their voices are listened to and heard. 

Nurture & empathy

Our children and young people feel safe with clear boundaries, predictable routines, expectations and regulated responses to behaviour. 

BEHAVIOUR IS A FORM OF COMMUNICATION

We offer understanding and learn about each child’s needs.

We use personalised responses to support personal development and well-being. Consistency does not always mean responding in the same way to each child or behaviour, it means responding in a way which is consistent to our values & beliefs.