Brief Description – This research aimed to explore the perspectives of staff, parents/carers and children regarding the benefits and disadvantages of attending a residential school for children with severe emotional and behavioural problems. Twenty three in depth interviews were carried out with 5 pupils, 6 parents/carers and 12 staff. 

Key findings –  Parents/carers, staff, and pupils all reported a similar range of important benefits including: 

• A positive and substantial impact on the children’s emotional and behavioural development
• Improved capacity to deal with difficult feelings
• Better self-esteem, and improved relationships with others
• There were educational improvements although some parents/carers expressed concerns about levels of academic achievement

Publication – Harriss, L., Barlow, J. and Moli, P. (2008). Specialist residential education for children with severe emotional and behavioural difficulties: Pupil, parent, and staff perspectives. Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties, 13:1: 31–47. 

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13632750701814666 

For a copy of the full report please email Caryn Onions [email protected]