The Berry Street Education Model and Our School's Implementation
The Berry Street Education Model (BSEM) is a trauma-informed approach designed to improve student well-being, emotional regulation, and learning outcomes. By focusing on building positive relationships and developing social-emotional skills, BSEM supports students in becoming ready to learn and engage in the classroom environment. The model is grounded in understanding how trauma impacts students' brain development, behaviour, and academic performance, providing practical strategies for educators to support all learners.
Our school has implemented key elements of the Berry Street Education Model, including the following:
- Ready to Learn Scales
The Ready to Learn Scales are a set of tools used to assess students' emotional and physical states at the start of each lesson. By identifying where students are in terms of their emotional regulation, teachers can tailor their teaching to better meet their needs. This scale encourages self-awareness in students and helps them understand their feelings, fostering a calm and focused learning environment. - Brain Breaks
Regular "brain breaks" are incorporated throughout the day to help students reset and refocus. These breaks allow students to move, stretch, and engage in activities that help regulate their emotions and energy levels. By taking time for physical activity, students are better able to engage with their learning, improve concentration, and reduce stress or anxiety. - Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
A key component of the Berry Street model is developing emotional intelligence. Our school places a strong emphasis on teaching students to recognise and understand their emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Through classroom activities and discussions, students practice skills such as empathy, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution, which are essential for building positive relationships and achieving academic success.
By adopting the Berry Street Education Model, our school aims to create a supportive, inclusive, and trauma-sensitive learning environment where all students can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.