International Trauma-Informed Practice Principles for Schools (ITIPPS): expert consensus of best-practice principles

• DOI: 10.1007/s13384-023-00648-2
• Publication Date: 2023-08-18T03:21:32Z
• Authors: Karen Martin; Madeleine Dobson; Kate Fitzgerald; Madeleine Ford; Stephan Lund; Helen Egeberg; Rebecca Walker; Helen Milroy; Keane Wheeler; Amanda Kasten-Lee; Lisa Bayly; Angela Gazey; Sarah Falconer; Monique Platell; Emily Berger
• Keywords: Best practice; Thematic Analysis; Rubric; Compassion; Generosity; Delphi Method

Abstract Recognition that schools should be responsive to children who are impacted by adversity and trauma is burgeoning internationally. However, consensus regarding the necessary components of a trauma-informed school lacking. This research developed expert-informed internationally relevant best-practice principles for schools. A four-phase methodology included (i) identification school-relevant practice programs, (ii) inductive thematic analysis main concepts underlying (iii) phrasing draft Principles (iv) Principle revision finalisation via two-round Delphi survey with international experts. Excellent agreement experts on importance all was achieved (round 1 ≥ 86.4%, 2 92.3%). The final ‘International Trauma-Informed Practice Schools’ (ITIPPS) include four Overarching (A–D) 10 (1–10). Summarised, these school: (A) student focussed; (B) models compassion generosity; (C) understanding responsive; (D) incorporates recognition their First Nations peoples in school’s ethos: (1) prioritises safety wellbeing; (2) positive relationships; (3) provides culture connects; (4) consults collaborates; (5) supports vulnerable students; (6) teaches social emotional learning; (7) training; (8) predictable yet flexible; (9) identifies nurtures strengths (10) reflects, changes grows. ITIPPS provide clear guidance education sectors, other settings about appropriate learning environments young people trauma. Research now underway Western Australian pilot test feasibility impact using within framework (thoughtfulschools.org.au) establish