Training, Preparation and Ongoing Support
In addition to responding to critical incidents, the Critical Incident Support Service helps schools and early years settings prepare for and manage difficult situations with confidence.
We encourage all settings to engage in training and consultation so that staff feel equipped to respond calmly, compassionately and effectively should a serious incident occur.
Training opportunities
We offer a range of training sessions, available free of charge to local authority schools and subscribing settings.
Managing a critical incident (Senior leaders)
This training is designed for headteachers, senior leaders and designated safeguarding leads. It supports leaders to:
- Understand what constitutes a critical incident
- Plan and prepare effective responses
- Clarify roles and responsibilities following an incident
- Manage communication with staff, pupils, parents and external agencies
- Develop confidence in leading during times of crisis
This training supports schools to review and strengthen their Critical Incident (Red Book) procedures.
Supporting bereaved children in school communities
This training is suitable for all members of school staff and focuses on:
- Understanding children's responses to grief and loss
- Supporting bereaved pupils in an educational setting
- Using developmentally appropriate and trauma‑informed approaches
- Supporting staff wellbeing when working with bereavement
This training is also available as in‑house delivery, tailored to the needs of individual settings.
Consultation and advice
Outside of active critical incidents, the Critical Incident Specialist Support Leads offer consultation and professional advice relating to:
- Bereavement affecting children or staff
- Recent traumatic events impacting individuals or groups
- Supporting schools in considering appropriate referrals to other services
Consultations provide space for school leaders to reflect, ask questions and receive research‑informed guidance.
Peer support and service development
The Service continues to develop its offer in response to need. This includes:
- Peer group supervision sessions relating to bereavement
- Ongoing work linked to suicide prevention in schools
- Contribution to work around the teaching of death and bereavement in educational settings
Accessing training and resources
Information about upcoming training sessions and available resources can be found on the Services for Schools website.
Engaging with training and preparation helps ensure that, should a critical incident occur, schools feel supported, equipped and confident in their response.
