A Fresh Look at Supporting Adolescents

A Fresh Look at Supporting Adolescents with a Trauma Background

In this insightful presentation, Vivienne Batt shares the innovative work she’s doing alongside a passionate team, helping secondary school students who have disengaged from mainstream education. Using the latest research in neuroscience and trauma-informed care, Vivienne and her team support students who have faced significant challenges, including alphabet diagnoses, and are often at a very low point in their educational journey.

Through a combination of trauma-informed practices, educational strategies, animal-assisted therapy, and strengths-based approaches, Vivienne and her team work to re-engage each student with their learning journey. This work is deeply rooted in a Christian worldview, bringing a unique and holistic perspective to the challenges students face.

Vivienne explores the integration of horses in helping students regulate their emotions and connect with their feelings, as well as the power of building rapport with trusted adults. This trauma-informed approach is designed to help students regain confidence in their learning, rebuild their self-esteem, and find new pathways forward in life.

As Vivienne’s work continues to evolve, this presentation offers an exciting look into the innovative methods being used in education today. Expect to hear more in the future as new strategies are explored to support these young people on their journey.

With over 40 years of teaching experience and 8 years as a counsellor, Vivienne combines her expertise in education and counselling to make a lasting difference in the lives of struggling adolescents. Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Education, Master of Counselling, and Master of Guidance Counselling. She currently works as the Head Teacher at Carbrook Animal Assisted Learning Centre in South East Queensland. When she’s not making a difference at work, Vivienne enjoys spending time with her family, hitting the beach or the bush, and relaxing with a good book.