Oxfordshire Relational Schools Programme

Find out about the Oxfordshire Relational Schools Programme.

The Relational Schools Programme is a project that sits within the Right Support Right Time in Inclusive Settings workstream of the SEN Transformation Programme. With permission, we have developed a model originally devised by Gloucestershire County Council to embed trauma-informed, relational and restorative ways of working in our schools, and more widely across the school-system.

As part of the Relational Schools Programme, there is a suite of online Trauma Informed Relational Practice (TIRP) modules, introducing participants to the interconnected elements of inclusive practice. It is accessible to all members of an organisation and creates a foundation that acts as a gateway to more specialist training. It blends learning, reflection, and practice elements, enabling individuals and organisations to move from delivering inclusive interventions to creating inclusive environments.

It is a blended learning model comprising online modules and group face-to-face sessions. It has been intentionally designed to take into consideration adult learning styles and embedding changes in practice. Practice discussion circles enable the learner to develop their knowledge and understanding and also offer an opportunity for communication and reflection. This builds a shared understanding from individual experience and enables a practical application of learning. The module content has been co-produced by a number of subject experts in the fields of Psychology, Trauma, Education, Restorative Practice, and Inclusion. The TIRP modules promote a relational and restorative way of working that is attachment and ACEs aware, trauma-informed and shame sensitive.

Alongside the TIRP modules and reflection circles, there is a Relational Schools Leadership Programme for headteachers to support them and their teams in embedding the principles and values of relational and restorative practice, shaping the school’s ethos, culture and policies.

This is a programme for all settings and all ages. If you would like to find out more about accessing the Oxfordshire Relational Schools Programme, please contact Laura East at laura.east@oxfordshire.gov.uk