Therapeutic classrooms in a Dorset school have radically improved attendance, engagement and behaviour, its headteacher has said.

John Bagwell introduced the concept in January to two Year 3 classrooms and a ‘break-out space’ at Parley First School. It is based on work by childhood trauma specialist and founder of the ‘Therapeutic Classrooms’, Shahana Knight.

The plastic tables and chairs have been replaced by solid wooden desks of varying shapes and comfortable leather seats. Sofas, heavy blankets and greenery have also been included in a bid to ‘bring the home into school’.

John said:

“The therapeutic approach to learning meets the needs of all children but additional benefit is to those children with more complex needs. We have been working towards this for two years - there has been an initial investment but the tables and chairs will last for generations."

“On the walls are photos of the children and staff to give a sense of belonging and to see them as individuals. I have been working with Shahana Knight and she designed the classrooms and break-out space."

“Since Christmas attendance and engagement have improved and behavioural incidents have dropped significantly with no incidents to report."

“The change of environment has significantly improved the children’s engagement and focus. Each morning the children do mindfulness exercises and during the day they eat fresh fruit and are encouraged to keep hydrated."

“The old plastic chairs that most people will remember sitting on when they were at school we hope to send to Africa through an education charity.”