Trauma-aware education equips teachers to understand how complex developmental trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) shape a child's development, learning, and behaviour.
By integrating research on neurobiology, intergenerational trauma, and systemic frameworks, teachers can create safe, supportive environments that foster resilience and engagement. This approach not only improves learner outcomes but also enhances staff wellbeing, enabling educators to lead and advocate for practices that address the diverse needs of students living with the effects of trauma.
Explore our courses
Microcredential in trauma-aware education
Perfect for professional development, this microcredential will help you build foundational knowledge and practical strategies for trauma-aware education.
Graduate Certificate in Education (Trauma-Aware Education)
Develop deeper skills to lead trauma-informed practices and influence policies within your school or educational setting.
Master of Education (Trauma-Aware Education)
Be equipped with evidence-based research to advocate for your students and drive systemic change for trauma-aware education through research, policy development and professional learning.
Trauma-informed practice
Trauma-aware education graduate Laurenn Neuendorf shares how QUT gave her the tools to support students impacted by complex trauma – helping them reconnect with learning, build resilience, and thrive. From creating plans for change to understanding the neuroscience behind trauma, Laurenn explains why this specialisation is a field of hope and why teachers have the power to make a lifelong difference.
Our experts
Our experts can guide you to understand how to respond and lead a trauma-aware response in primary and secondary schools, early childhood education and care, and other education settings.
Professor Judith Howard
Professor Judith Howard is a national leader in trauma-aware education with international influence. Drawing on an extensive career in Queensland’s government schools, she has served as a teacher, counsellor, behaviour specialist, and held senior leadership roles. Judith’s work focuses on supporting young learners affected by complex trauma and empowering educators with neuroscience-informed strategies to improve teaching and student wellbeing.
Dr Lyra L’Estrange
Dr Lyra L'Estrange's research and teaching in trauma-aware education contributes to redefining support systems for children and adolescents living with the outcomes of complex trauma and significant adversity. Lyra uses her research experience in public health to translate trauma-informed principles into the education space, supporting learning and development and advocating for the wellbeing of staff and students.
Real strategies, real impact
'Trauma-aware education was incredibly practical and relevant to real-world classroom scenarios. We explored the impact of trauma, how to recognise its signs, and strategies to support students effectively. Each unit offered insights directly applicable to everyday teaching. It gave me the tools to better understand and respond to students' needs.'
Trauma-aware graduate
Trauma-Aware Education Conference 2026
Join us for the conference in Brisbane on 29-31 October 2026.
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