At Lawley Primary School, relationships come first 💛
We believe children learn best when they feel safe, loved, valued and connected.
Our school is a welcoming, nurturing place where every child and every adult belongs. When children feel secure and understood, they are more confident, better able to manage their emotions, and ready to succeed – both in learning and in life.
That’s why we use a Theraplay‑informed approach across our school.
We understand that behaviour is a form of communication. Children show us how they are feeling through what they do, and strong relationships help us respond with care, curiosity and compassion.
Theraplay‑informed practice supports:
We use this approach with all children, and also provide extra support when it’s needed.
Theraplay‑informed practice helps children develop:
It can be delivered:
✨ Play is at the heart of everything we do ✨
“Play gives the child experiences of shared joy and helps regulate the nervous system, supporting mental and physical health.”
— Stephen Porges (2015)
Clear routines, boundaries and predictable sessions help children feel safe and secure. When children know what to expect, they can relax, trust and join in.
Warm, attentive connections between adults and children help everyone feel noticed and valued. Smiles, eye contact, shared games and laughter make learning joyful.
Kindness, care and reassurance help children feel comforted and supported. Children also have opportunities to care for each other during Rainbow Circles.
Children are gently supported to try new things and experience success. This builds confidence, resilience and a belief in their own abilities.
Everyone!
All children take part in weekly Rainbow Circles, led by their class teachers. These sessions strengthen friendships, build trust and support emotional wellbeing.
Some children benefit from targeted group sessions, led by trained staff, to support specific social or emotional needs. Progress is carefully monitored to ensure the best outcomes.
A small number of children may access a 1:1 Theraplay‑informed programme (usually over 12 weeks), designed to support pupils with developmental trauma or attachment difficulties.
Rainbow Circles are fun, structured and inclusive!
Sessions include:
We use healthy, nurturing touch carefully and respectfully, always following safeguarding guidance and our Healthy Touch Policy.
Healthy touch:
🚫 Touch is never allowed in private areas and always stays within clear, safe boundaries.
To view our Healthy touch policy please click here.
Theraplay‑informed practice helps make Lawley Primary School a place where:
By embedding this approach across our school, we are helping every child grow in confidence, resilience and connection – ready to learn, thrive and shine ✨
