Author Identifier

Kay Ayre: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8505-6940

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Title

Psychology in the Schools

Publisher

Wiley

School

School of Education

Funders

Rotary Health Australia / Manna Institute, Regional Mental Health Research

Comments

Krishnamoorthy, G., Antonaglia, D., Dallinger, V., Berger, E., March, S., Ong, S., ... & Ayre, K. (2025). Embedding coaching and local education champions in implementing trauma informed practice. Psychology in the Schools. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1002/pits.23539

Abstract

Growing recognition of the high prevalence of childhood adversity and maltreatment in the general population has led to efforts to support students through trauma-informed practice (TIP). This study investigated the use of coaching in effectively implementing trauma-informed programs in schools. A psychologist and a program “champion” (learning engagement coordinator) provided individual teachers coaching on student socio-emotional and behavioral concerns. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 26 teachers at an Australian primary school implementing the Trauma-informed Behavior Support (TIBS) program. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed to ascertain coaching acceptability, feasibility, and impact themes. Findings suggested that the alignment of coaching with preceding trauma-informed training and teacher values generated positive expectancies and engagement amongst educators. Provision of reflective practice from coaching also met teacher learning needs. Teachers reported feeling validated and understood by the coach, benefiting from collaborative problem-solving and tailored solutions. Additionally, the program champion's facilitative role through advocacy and logistical support was vital to feasible implementation. This study highlights the critical delivery of coaching within a tiered TIP program, aiding the transfer of pedagogy into classrooms. It extends previous literature, affirming coaching as a feasible and acceptable implementation strategy, supporting educators to manage complex student needs.

DOI

10.1002/pits.23539

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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