At Ysgol Cambrian, we are committed to supporting the whole child. Many of our pupils benefit from structured emotional, social and physical wellbeing approaches that help them feel safe, regulated and ready to learn. We use a range of evidence‑based programmes and therapeutic strategies to ensure pupils receive the right support at the right time.

Thrive

The Thrive Approach is a structured, developmental approach that helps us identify and respond to pupils’ emotional and social needs. It uses play, creativity and the arts to build positive relationships, strengthen emotional resilience and promote a secure sense of self.

Thrive supports pupils who may have experienced challenges or disruptions in their early development, helping them re‑engage with learning and daily life. It is based on a clear developmental model that guides adults in understanding how children grow socially and emotionally from birth to adulthood.

We currently have three trained Thrive Licensed Practitioners in school, and we are developing a dedicated Thrive space to support targeted sessions and small‑group work.

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

PBS is the foundation of our behaviour and wellbeing approach at Ysgol Cambrian. It focuses on understanding the reasons behind behaviour and teaching pupils the skills they need to communicate, regulate and participate successfully.

PBS is:

• Proactive
• Child‑centred
• Based on understanding individual needs
• Focused on teaching new skills rather than managing behaviour

Strategies are personalised and developed in partnership with families and professionals to ensure pupils feel understood, supported and safe.

Team‑Teach

Team‑Teach is the positive behaviour support framework used at Ysgol Cambrian. It is approved by the Local Authority and the Governing Body. The focus of Team‑Teach is always on de‑escalation, emotional regulation and proactive strategies.

Physical intervention is used only as a last resort and only by staff who are fully trained. If an intervention is required, parents and carers are informed, and all procedures are followed in line with school policy.

Manual Handling

The safety of pupils and staff is a priority. Our Manual Handling procedures ensure that pupils with physical or mobility needs are supported safely and respectfully. All staff receive up‑to‑date training, refreshed annually, to ensure safe practice at all times.

Our aim is to prevent injury, promote independence and ensure pupils can access all areas of school life safely and comfortably.

Therapeutic and Wellbeing Support   

We offer a range of additional wellbeing approaches to support pupils’ emotional and sensory needs, including:

• Eye‑to‑Eye counselling
• Play therapy
• Wellbeing groups led by our Wellbeing Officer
• Targeted small‑group interventions for pupils who may need additional support

These approaches help pupils develop confidence, emotional regulation, communication and resilience.

Supporting Mobility, Regulation and Wellbeing

At Ysgol Cambrian, our therapeutic provision is designed to nurture each pupil’s mobility, regulation and overall wellbeing through meaningful, enjoyable experiences. Our Hydrotherapy Coordinator and Physical Therapy Coordinator lead a rich programme that includes hydrotherapy incorporating Liquid Listening and the Rockhopper STA swimming scheme, offering pupils freedom of movement, sensory regulation and confidence in the water. We also use the MOVE Programme to develop functional movement skills that support independence in everyday life, alongside Rebound Therapy, sensory circuits and the Daily Mile to build strength, coordination and emotional readiness for learning. Together, these approaches create a supportive, motivating environment where every child can grow, participate and thrive.