Neurofeedback at Woolston Brook School

At Woolston Brook School, we believe that positive relationships, personal responsibility, and mutual respect are the foundation for learning and wellbeing. Neurofeedback is one of the therapeutic approaches we use to support this belief, helping pupils to feel calmer, more regulated, and better able to engage with learning and daily life.

Neurofeedback is a gentle, non-invasive form of brain training that supports children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) to develop emotional regulation, resilience, and readiness to learn.

We use specialist neurofeedback equipment from BEE Medic, used internationally in educational and clinical settings. We are one of only two provisions in Warrington to offer this therapeutic intervention. We have a fully trained and certified practitioner on site (Cath Fowler) thanks to the support of the Virtual School in Warrington. Interventions are supervised by Dr Sue Darby, Educational Psychologist.

A Holistic, Child-Centred Approach

Woolston Brook recognises that many of our pupils experience:

Difficulties with emotional regulation.
Heightened anxiety or stress.
Challenges with attention and focus.
Sensory processing differences.
Barriers to engagement caused by past experiences.

Neurofeedback supports pupils holistically, recognising that learning cannot thrive unless emotional and neurological needs are also supported.

Sessions are calm, predictable, and adapted to each pupil’s individual needs, communication style, and sensory profile.

How Neurofeedback Works

Small sensors are placed gently on the scalp to measure brain activity only.
Nothing is sent into the brain and the process is completely painless.

Pupils receive real-time feedback through:

Simple visual activities.
Calming animations.
Sounds or music.

The brain learns, gradually and naturally, how to move towards more regulated and organised patterns. There is no pressure to talk, perform, or “get it right”.

Supporting EHCP Outcomes

Neurofeedback aligns closely with Woolston Brook’s broad, balanced and inclusive curriculum and supports outcomes commonly identified within EHCPs.

Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)

Improved emotional regulation.
Reduced anxiety and emotional overwhelm.
Greater ability to manage stress and transitions.

Cognition and Learning

Increased focus and engagement.
Improved readiness to access learning.
Greater confidence in tackling challenges.

Communication and Interaction

Improved emotional availability for interaction.
Increased capacity to engage with peers and adults.

Preparation for Adulthood

Development of self-regulation skills.
Increased independence and self-awareness.
Improved coping strategies for future education and life.

Neurofeedback does not replace other provision. It works alongside teaching, pastoral care, therapeutic input, and enrichment opportunities to support each pupil’s individual journey.

Why Neurofeedback at Woolston Brook?

✔ Non-invasive and drug-free.
✔ Individualised to EHCP outcomes.
✔ Supports long-term emotional regulation.
✔ Accessible for pupils who find talking therapies difficult.
✔ Complements Woolston Brook’s therapeutic and educational offer.

Neurofeedback supports pupils to feel more settled, confident, and ready to learn.

What Does the Research Say About Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback has been used and studied for many years as a way of helping people learn how to better regulate their brain activity. Researchers have looked at neurofeedback in lots of different studies, particularly around attention, emotional regulation, stress, and how the brain can change and adapt over time.

Overall, research suggests that neurofeedback can be helpful children, especially when used as part of a wider support plan.

Where Research Shows Promising Benefits

Improved Attention and Focus

Scientific studies have found that neurofeedback can help children stay focused for longer and concentrate more easily, particularly those who find attention challenging. In several research studies, children who took part in neurofeedback showed better sustained attention compared to children who did not receive this support.

Support with Behaviour and Self-Control

Research also suggests that neurofeedback may help some children to:

Feel calmer.
Reduce impulsive or overactive behaviour.
Improve self-control.

Parents and professionals in these studies often noticed children becoming better able to manage their reactions and behaviour, which can make everyday situations at school and at home feel more manageable.

Helping the Brain Learn and Adapt

The brain is able to change and grow through experience — this is known as neuroplasticity. Research shows that neurofeedback can support this process by helping the brain practise more helpful patterns of activity. Over time, these patterns can become more settled, which may lead to lasting improvements in regulation and emotional balance.

What This Means for Families

Neurofeedback is not a quick fix, and it doesn’t work in exactly the same way for every child. However, research suggests it can be a useful and supportive approach for helping children develop skills that support learning, emotional wellbeing, and everyday life — especially when used alongside other educational and therapeutic support.