EPISODE · Jun 16, 2026 · 1H 5M
Trauma-Informed Practice in Schools - Dr Erin Leif
from Behavioural Deep Dive · host Jake Lewis
What does it actually mean for a school to be trauma-informed?In this episode of Behavioural Deep Dive, I’m joined by Dr Erin Leif to explore trauma and trauma-informed practice within educational settings. Together, we discuss how experiences of adversity can influence learning, behaviour, relationships, and emotional regulation, and the important role schools can play in promoting safety, connection, and belonging.Drawing on principles from behaviour science and inclusive education, Erin explains the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and trauma, why trauma is defined by its impact rather than the event itself, and how protective factors can help foster resilience and positive outcomes for children and young people.We also explore several common misconceptions surrounding trauma-informed practice and discuss why many of its core principles align closely with effective Tier 1 practices within a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). Throughout the conversation, Erin highlights how safe and predictable environments, positive relationships, explicit teaching, and supportive pathways to success can benefit all students.Whether you're a teacher, school leader, school psychologist, behaviour support practitioner, or anyone interested in creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments, this episode offers practical insights that can be applied immediately within educational settings.View the full show notes, resources, and further reading.About Dr Erin LeifDr Erin Leif is an Associate Professor at Monash University, Course Leader for the Master of Applied Behaviour Analysis, and Chair of Behaviour Support Practitioners Australia. Her work focuses on advancing inclusive, person-centred, and evidence-based approaches that improve outcomes for children and young people across education and disability settings.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with a colleague.
What this episode covers
What does it actually mean for a school to be trauma-informed?In this episode of Behavioural Deep Dive, I’m joined by Dr Erin Leif to explore trauma and trauma-informed practice within educational settings. Together, we discuss how experiences of adversity can influence learning, behaviour, relationships, and emotional regulation, and the important role schools can play in promoting safety, connection, and belonging.Drawing on principles from behaviour science and inclusive education, Erin explains the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and trauma, why trauma is defined by its impact rather than the event itself, and how protective factors can help foster resilience and positive outcomes for children and young people.We also explore several common misconceptions surrounding trauma-informed practice and discuss why many of its core principles align closely with effective Tier 1 practices within a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). Throughout the conversation, Erin highlights how safe and predictable environments, positive relationships, explicit teaching, and supportive pathways to success can benefit all students.Whether you're a teacher, school leader, school psychologist, behaviour support practitioner, or anyone interested in creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments, this episode offers practical insights that can be applied immediately within educational settings.View the full show notes, resources, and further reading.About Dr Erin LeifDr Erin Leif is an Associate Professor at Monash University, Course Leader for the Master of Applied Behaviour Analysis, and Chair of Behaviour Support Practitioners Australia. Her work focuses on advancing inclusive, person-centred, and evidence-based approaches that improve outcomes for children and young people across education and disability settings.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with a colleague.
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Trauma-Informed Practice in Schools - Dr Erin Leif
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