At ACT Multi Academy Trust, we know that children flourish when their emotional wellbeing is nurtured alongside their academic learning. The Thrive Approach is at the heart of our schools—a shared commitment to growing resilient, confident, and compassionate young people.

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.”
— Kay Redfield Jamison

Why Thrive?

Thrive is more than a programme—it’s a philosophy that shapes every interaction, every lesson, and every relationship. We recognise that every child’s journey is unique, and that emotional development is the foundation for lifelong success. By understanding and responding to children’s social and emotional needs, we create safe, supportive environments where every pupil feels seen, heard, and valued.

“When we give children the tools to understand and manage their feelings, we give them the power to shape their future.”
— Thrive Practitioner

What Does Thrive Look Like in Our Schools?

• Whole-School Wellbeing: Thrive is woven into daily routines, assemblies, lessons, and playtimes. Staff use Thrive principles to guide behaviour, foster positive relationships, and create a culture of kindness and respect.
• Personalised Support: Using Thrive assessments, we identify each child’s strengths and areas for growth. Targeted activities and interventions help pupils build emotional resilience, self-esteem, and coping skills.
• Positive Relationships: Staff build trusting connections with pupils, modelling empathy, emotional literacy, and respectful communication. Children learn to express themselves, resolve conflicts, and support one another.
• Family Partnership: We work closely with families, sharing Thrive strategies and celebrating progress together. Parents and carers are invited to workshops, events, and conversations about wellbeing.
• Celebrating Growth: We recognise and reward resilience, empathy, and positive choices—helping children see their own progress and potential.

“The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice.”
— Peggy O’Mara

The Impact of Thrive

Across ACT schools, Thrive is making a real difference:

• Children feel safer, happier, and more confident in themselves.
• Behaviour incidents are reduced, and pupils are better able to manage their emotions.
• Attendance improves as children feel more connected and engaged.
• Staff report stronger relationships and a more positive school climate.
• Families feel supported and involved in their child’s wellbeing journey.

“Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.”
— John F. Kennedy

Our Promise

We promise to:

• See and support every child, not just for what they achieve, but for who they are.
• Create spaces where children feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and grow.
• Equip pupils with the skills to manage emotions, build friendships, and overcome challenges.
• Work together—staff, families, governors, and pupils—to make wellbeing a foundation for lifelong learning.
• Keep the Thrive Approach alive in our daily practice, ensuring every child’s emotional needs are recognised and met.

“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honours.”
— Tia Walker

Join Us on the Journey

At ACT, we believe that when children thrive, communities thrive. We invite you to explore our vision, discover Thrive in action, and join us in growing hearts and minds—one child at a time.

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At ACT Multi Academy Trust, wellbeing isn’t an add-on. It’s the foundation for everything we do.