How is Trauma-Informed Education Implemented within Classrooms? A Synthesis of Trauma-Informed Education Programs

The purpose of this study was to synthesise the content of trauma-informed education programs with a focus on classroom strategies. Programs (N = 20) were identified that focused on primary and secondary schools and were suitable for application in the classroom by teachers. Program materials available in the public domain were collated and the qualitative research method of reflexive thematic analysis was used to explore commonalities and themes in classroom strategies across different approaches. Classroom strategies were aimed at meeting students' somatic (i.e., 'bottom -up') capacities of safety needs, self-regulatory needs, sensory needs, and relational and attachment needs. Classroom strategies also focused on supporting students' psychological (i.e., 'top -down') capacities of social and emotional learning needs, academic and learning needs, voice and empowerment needs, strengths needs, and cultural needs. Recommendations for future research and practice in the paradigm of trauma-informed education include an increased focus on teacher instruction and prioritising how trauma-informed education can be tailored to meet the needs of a diverse range of students.