At Nyth y Deryn, we are deeply committed to supporting our learners' mental health and wellbeing. Our approach is grounded in a Trauma-Informed system, with family dynamics at the heart of our practice. We believe that the foundation for engaging learners lies in the development of strong, positive relationships with staff.

To nurture these relationships, we utilize a range of strategies, with PLAY being a central focus. Through ongoing research into child development, we have learned that engaging in play activities in the morning helps release happiness-inducing chemicals in the brain. This is why play is an essential part of our daily routine.

Our play activities include bubble painting, making playdough, and a variety of other creative and fun activities designed to foster connection, joy, and emotional wellbeing.

Learners have access to a variety of regulation spaces to support them when they are feeling sad, angry, or frustrated. These spaces include:

• Outdoor play and regulation areas

• Our calming garden spaces including an outdoor teaching classroom

• Wellbeing and sensory rooms throughout our school

• Animal therapy with Oreo our full-time school companion

These areas are designed to provide a safe and peaceful environment for learners to relax, reflect, and regain emotional balance.

                                                                                                                            Wellbeing rooms; if learners require either time with us or time on their own we have options to suit individual needs. 

We have a dedicated Achievement Team who work alongside teaching groups, small bespoke groups or on a one to one basis with learners if they require extra support. 

Introducing our onsite therapy dog, Oreo. He works with us everyday and is always keen for new adventures and friends!

Oreo is a bouncy playful bundle of fun. He is available for 1-1 interventions where needed, he can work with class groups or is happy to have whatver fuss is on offer! Nyth y Deryn provides a wide range of animal therapy options. This may be as simple as learners taking Oreo into the garden; letting him run around, play ball and take him for a walk or even getting him to talk using his buttons!

Oreo has achieved his Bronze and Silver Good Dog Award and is currently working towards his Gold!