The Nurturing Support Center: A framework supporting implementation in a secondary school setting

This presentation introduces the Nurturing Support Centre (NSC) as a complementary, school-wide approach designed to strengthen the inclusion, engagement, and educational success of secondary students with diverse and complex needs. Rather than viewing the NSB as simply a physical space, participants will explore it as part of a broader inclusive school culture grounded in caring adult relationships, professional posture, prevention, collaboration, and responsiveness to student needs.

The presentation will examine the foundations, purpose, target population, structure, and day-to-day functioning of a NSC, as well as the conditions required for successful implementation. Particular attention will be given to a neurodevelopmental and inclusive approach, emotional safety, co-regulation, proactive support, collaborative practices, and the shared responsibility of the entire school team.

Participants will also consider how the NSC fits within a multi-tiered system of support, complementing—not replacing—strong classroom practices and other school-based interventions. Ultimately, the presentation invites school teams to think beyond the…