Sweet chilli in the soup

Abstract

Psychotherapists know a great deal about child development, attachment theory, systems theory and ways of relating. They have a lot to contribute to the education system, which is currently in need of a great deal of help. Teachers in the grip of the current crisis for the education system are compromised in their ability to think about children's experiences and to create an environment where children feel safe, understood and cared about. This paper posits ideas as to why the system is failing children and teachers. It explores ways in which psychotherapeutic understanding could help to fire up the "grey soup" of the education system, and at the same time soothe the palate of teachers and the children in their care.