b'Attachment difficulties in the classroomWe know that many children with SEMH needs are struggling with environmental and relational experiences that prevent them from being able to thrive, and impacts directly on their physical and mental wellbeing. Many lack the trust and the safety of having had their emotional needs met andIn a primary school average class ofconsequently, face difficulties in engaging in30 children:22learning, forming relationships, and trusting the adults and peers in their lives.2 live in a household where domestic Given the challenging backdrop of adversity,violence or abuse is presentstress, and complex environmental factors,4 live in a household where domestic vulnerable children are at a significantly high riskviolence, substance misuse and/or severe of falling through cracks in the system and ofmental health problems are presentbeing failed due to early childhood experiences.4 have an identified special educational need It is imperative that we provide these vulnerable(SEN) although only 1 have a SEN statement children in our classrooms with a greater levelor Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)of care, intervention and relationships with4 have a mental health issue although only trusted adults who enable them to thrive in1 will be accessing mental health servicesa learning context but who also give them aNo apparent needssense of safety, security and genuine care.Whole education approaches that prioritise and embed restorative and relational approaches are recognised as integral factors in improving behaviour and in protecting and promoting the mental health and wellbeing of pupils.Behaviour and Mental Health in Schools Inquiry Report, 2022 2129% 28% 29%of children did not feel emotionallyof children were having difficultiesof children were having secure (e.g. trusting adults in schoolgiving purposeful attention (e.g.difficulties accommodating or asking for help when needed) listening with interest or takingothers (e.g. sharing classroom part in teacher-centered activities) equipment with other children or being polite towards others)8 bath.ac.uk'