Making SPACE for learning is an on-demand professional learning program designed to strengthen the capacity of educators, school leaders and school staff to understand and respond to children and young people impacted by trauma.

Grounded in contemporary understandings of child development, neurobiology and trauma-transformative practice, the course explores how trauma can influence children’s physiological functioning, memory, relationships, identity, behaviour and readiness to learn.

Through practical examples, activities and reflection, participants consider how everyday interactions, environments and school practices can strengthen safety, connection, belonging and participation for students who have experienced trauma. The course also encourages participants to consider their own professional wellbeing and the importance of regulated, supported adults in creating environments in which students can thrive.

This course is designed for people working in and with schools and alternative education settings, including:

• Teachers and educators
• School principals and leadership teams
• Student wellbeing and professional support staff
• Education support staff
• Other professionals working with schools and education settings

Learning objectives:

• Understand trauma-transformative practice in education: Explore how schools and the systems surrounding children can contribute to healing, belonging, wellbeing and readiness to learn.
• Describe the knowledge base of neurobiology, child development and the needs of children and young people: Consider the needs of children and young people, their development, Polyvagal Theory and the Window of Tolerance, and their relevance to learning and behaviour.
• Understand trauma and it's impacts on children and young people in an education setting: Explore how trauma can affect physiological functioning, memory, relationships, identity, meaning-making and shame.
• Apply the Making SPACE for learning framework, including the SPACE principles and places of influence: Understand the five SPACE principles of Safety, Predictability, Attuned connections, Cultural strength and Empowerment, and how they work together.
• Integrate the framework into an education context through strategies and activities: Consider how the SPACE principles can influence the classroom, whole school, school environment, and family and community connections.
• Reflect on and apply approaches to maintaining and enhancing professional wellbeing in education settings: Apply the SPACE principles to your own professional practice, relationships and wellbeing.

Special introductory price: $49 (limited time only)