St Michael’s CE (A) Primary School, located in Wolverhampton, is a one-form-entry primary school that stands out for its commitment to inclusivity and innovation. With an SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) unit "The Ark" that accommodates 16 pupils, the school serves a richly diverse community. This diversity brings both challenges and extraordinary opportunities for growth and learning.
Over time, the school has identified that traditional educational strategies often fall short in addressing the needs of its most vulnerable pupils, including those in care or facing significant life challenges. Recognising this, the school adopted a transformative approach to education, rooted in the principles of attachment awareness and trauma-informed practices.
The school’s vision is centered on enabling every child to flourish, regardless of their experiences, backgrounds, or difficulties. Over the past decade, St Michael’s has developed a trauma-informed environment that prioritises emotional and psychological well-being. This holistic approach is underpinned by strong, trusting relationships and a steadfast commitment to inclusion.
To realise this vision, the school has made significant investments in professional development. All staff members have undergone comprehensive training in trauma and attachment, equipping them to better understand and support pupils’ needs. Additionally, the school’s values and Behaviour policies have been thoroughly reviewed to align with its inclusive ethos.
Ofsted’s October 2024 inspection report highlighted the school’s exceptional work, stating:
“This very well-led and governed school provides pupils with a high-quality education. Whatever pupils’ experiences, backgrounds, aptitudes, or difficulties, the school has high expectations for their achievement and Behaviour. A broad curriculum provides many opportunities to learn new things, both during and beyond the school day. Pupils respond well to this. They engage fully in school life, grow in confidence, and achieve well.”
The report also commended “The Ark,” noting that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive expert attention in this specialised unit. The school’s commitment to inclusion and ambition for all is evident in its daily practices.
St Michael’s recognises the importance of working collaboratively with families and carers to create a supportive environment for all pupils. The school has established a support group for carers, fostering open communication and co-developing policies and practices that reflect its trauma-informed philosophy. These efforts ensure that the entire school community is aligned in its goals.
As St Michael’s looks to the future, its leadership is committed to sharing its expertise and inspiring other schools to adopt trauma-informed practices. Plans include:
Through these initiatives, St Michael’s aims to extend its positive impact beyond its own community, becoming a beacon for best practices in trauma-informed education. The school’s dedication to fostering a safe, supportive environment exemplifies the power of education to transform lives.