Nurturing approach

Nurture in schools can be highly beneficial. It supports the emotional, social, and behavioural development of children. It can be particularly helpful to those who:

  • struggle in traditional classroom environments
  • have adverse childhood experiences

The principles of Nurture

There are six principles of nurture. These are the foundation of nurture-based approaches in schools. They guide how educators support children's emotional and social development:

  1. Children's learning is understood developmentally. Children progress at different rates. Their emotional and social development needs must be met for them to learn effectively.
  2. The classroom offers a safe base. A structured, predictable, and caring environment helps children feel secure.
  3. Nurture is important for the development of self-esteem. Positive relationships and encouragement help children build confidence and a sense of self-worth.
  4. Language is a vital means of communication. Opportunities to talk, listen, and be heard are essential for emotional expression and understanding.
  5. All behaviour is communication. Challenging behaviour is often an expression of unmet needs or emotions. It should be understood, not just punished.
  6. Transitions are significant in the lives of children. Changes such as moving class, home issues, or other life events can deeply affect children and must be handled sensitively.

You can read more about the principles of nurture at The Six Principles of Nurture - nurtureuk

Benefits of a nurturing approach

By providing a safe, caring, and predictable setting, nurture helps students feel valued and understood. This enhances their emotional wellbeing. It teaches teaching self-regulation and social skills through routines and supportive interactions. This can improve behaviour. Nurture prepares pupils to be more engaged and focused learners by addressing emotional barriers to learning. Additionally, a nurturing approach can:

  • help pupils foster positive relationships
  • reduce the need for exclusions
  • promote a more inclusive school environment
  • build confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self

These benefits contribute to better long-term outcomes in both education and personal development.

Nurture Audits

Many settings across East Sussex have Internal Alternative Provision (IAP). We can support these settings with a Nurture audit of your current provision. We can help settings to build capacity or realign with the six principles of nurture.

If you do not have a nurture classroom, but would like to, please reach out to your TASS Inclusion SPOC for more information.

Nurture Training

To support a nurturing approach, we offer free training for staff in schools and settings. These sessions also offer a chance to network with other nurturing settings.

To book on to one of these events, please email tass@eastsussex.gov.uk

Nurture network meeting dates
Date Time Venue
Wednesday 15 October 2025 1pm to 3pm Hellingly Community Hub
Friday 09 January 2026 2pm to 3pm Online via Teams
Wednesday 04 February 2026 1pm to 3pm Hellingly Community Hub
Monday 20 April 2026 1pm to 3pm Hellingly Community Hub