Nurture groups are founded on evidence-based practices and offer a short-term, inclusive, focused intervention that works in the long term.

We are a group of up to six children supported by two members of staff. Children attend nurture groups but remain an active part of their main class group, spend appropriate times within the nurture group according to their need and typically return full time to their own class within two to four terms.

Nurture groups assess learning and social and emotional needs and give whatever help is needed to remove the barriers to learning. There is great emphasis on language development and communication. Nothing is taken for granted and everything is explained, supported by role modelling, demonstration and the use of gesture as appropriate. The relationship between the staff, always nurturing and supportive, provides a role model that children observe and begin to copy. Food is shared at 'tea time’ with much opportunity for social learning, helping children to attend to the needs of others, with time to listen and be listened to.

As the children learn academically and socially they develop confidence, become responsive to others, learn self-respect and take pride in behaving well and in achieving.

We have been working successfully for over 2 years in school, and have been praised, supported by teaching staff, parents and the Nurture Group Network.

Organisations such as Ofsted, Estyn and HMIE recognise the need for these interventions.