Nurture groups are founded on evidence-based practices and offer a short-term, inclusive, focused intervention that works in the long term. Nurture groups consist of up to 6 children in early years, primary or secondary settings supported by the whole staff group and parents.

Children attend nurture groups alongside their main class group. They spend time each week within the nurture group according to their need and their support typically runs for between two to four terms.

Nurture groups assess learning and social and emotional needs and give whatever help is needed to remove the barriers to learning. There is great emphasis on language development and communication. Nothing is taken for granted and everything is explained, supported by role modelling, demonstration and the use of gesture as appropriate. Staff provide a role model that children observe and begin to copy.

Food is shared at 'breakfast' or 'snack time' with much opportunity for social learning, helping children to attend to the needs of others, with time to listen and be listened to.