Our Safeguarding team have put together a free checklist for schools to understand where their settings are able to offer positive experiences to support children who have experienced trauma.

Childhood is a the most important time in a person’s brain development, shaping a child’s future health, wellbeing, relationships, self-esteem and overall success in life.  

While Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), first explored by Felitti and Anda in the 1990s, have received significant attention, we’re only now beginning to recognise the importance of Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) to counteract negative experiences.  

These BCEs are positive, supportive moments, experiences and opportunities that can protect our vulnerable children, especially those facing adversity or unsafe environments.