Definition
A nurture group is a small, structured classroom-based intervention (typically 6–12 pupils) providing a predictable, attachment-aware environment for children with social, emotional, or attachment-related needs. The model was developed by educational psychologist Marjorie Boxall in the 1960s and is accredited by the Nurture Group Network (now part of Nurtureuk).
In context for parents
Key checkpoints
- A small, structured classroom-based intervention (6–12 pupils) providing a predictable, attachment-aware environment.
- Developed by educational psychologist Marjorie Boxall in the 1960s; accredited by Nurtureuk (formerly Nurture Group Network).
- Six nurture principles (Bennathan and Boxall, 1996) frame practice.
- The Boxall Profile is the assessment tool used to identify pupils and measure progress.
- Multiple UK studies show significant pre-post gains for children with early-life adversity, attachment difficulty, and trauma history.
A classic Boxall-style nurture group runs as a part-time intervention. The child remains on the mainstream class register and spends part of the day (typically 3–4 mornings a week, sometimes the whole day) in the nurture group, returning to mainstream for the rest. The group of 6–12 pupils is staffed by a teacher and TA, both trained in nurture group practice through Nurtureuk's accredited courses.
The six nurture principles (Bennathan and Boxall, 1996) frame practice. Learning is understood developmentally. The environment offers a safe base. The importance of nurture for the development of wellbeing. Language as vital. All behaviour is communication. Transitions are significant. In day-to-day practice this looks like: the group sharing a "snack time" together (a deliberate echo of the family meal); planned structure with adult-led activities; predictability and ritual; relationship-based learning rather than performance-based.
The Boxall Profile is the assessment tool used to identify pupils for nurture group placement and to measure their progress. The two strands (developmental and behavioural) give a profile that maps onto specific nurture-group targets. Pupils are typically placed for a 2–4 term block and reintegrated to full-time mainstream once the Boxall Profile shows sufficient gain.
The evidence base. Multiple UK studies (Sheffield Hallam, Glasgow, Strathclyde) have shown significant pre-post gains on the Boxall Profile, SDQ, and academic measures, particularly for children with early-life adversity, attachment difficulty, and trauma history. Nurtureuk's research dashboard summarises the cumulative evidence.
In an EHCP for SEMH or attachment-related need, Section F can specify nurture group provision: "daily access to a Nurtureuk-accredited Nurture Group, staffed by a trained teacher and TA, targeting specific Boxall Profile strands, reviewed termly".
Related terms
The terms parents most often see alongside Nurture Group.
Attachment-Aware Practice
A school-wide approach that uses attachment theory to understand and respond to children's emotional and behavioural needs, particularly for care-experienced and adopted children.
Social, Emotional and Mental Health(SEMH)
One of the four broad areas of SEND need. Covers difficulties with emotional regulation, mental health, attachment, and behaviour, including anxiety, withdrawal, and challenging behaviour.
Boxall Profile
A developmental assessment used in schools to identify children's social, emotional, and behavioural learning needs and to plan nurture group provision.
Where parents ask about this
Parents usually find this page when a school has offered nurture group placement and parents want to understand what it actually involves, or when wanting it specified in Section F. Searches include "nurture group SEMH school", "Boxall Profile nurture group", and "Nurtureuk accredited school". A Beaakon specialist can advise on whether nurture group fits your child's profile, support the placement discussion, and write Section F-grade wording.
References
The primary legislation, statutory guidance, research, and clinical tools this page draws on.