A leading voice in neuroscience and child development is heading to Edgecumbe next week for a public talk, bringing practical strategies and fresh insight into behaviour, trauma and learning.

Kathryn Berkett, known for her work in trauma-informed practice, will also lead a Teacher Only Day session with teachers, focusing on how the brain responds to stress and what drives behaviour in children. Her approach blends science with humour, making complex ideas easy to understand and apply in everyday life.

Edgecumbe School principal Mark Barratt said the visit came at an important time.

“Her training will help address some of the behavioural and learning challenges we’ve been seeing,” he said. “Kathryn has developed a programme tailored specifically to our school, combining online modules with face-to-face learning so staff have a strong foundation to build on.”

Mr Barratt said he was excited to bring Ms Berkett to the school after working with her previously, noting the value her expertise offers not just to teachers, but the wider community.

That wider reach will be evident on Thursday, May 14, when Ms Berkett hosts a public presentation titled Big Behaviours at the Edgecumbe War Memorial Hall. Doors open at 6pm, with the session running from 6.30pm to 8pm.

The evening promises to be an engaging and entertaining look at how the brain works, why behaviour occurs, and how this connects to raising children. Ms Berkett will explore what happens in the brain during everyday moment – like forgetting your keys – and how these responses relate to children’s behaviour and emotional development.

Attendees will gain practical, neuroscience-informed strategies to better understand the “why” behind behaviour, helping support self-regulation, empathy and healthy habits in children. The session is aimed at whānau, educators and anyone working with young people.

Edgecumbe School board presiding member Ashlee Sturme said Ms Berkett’s approach was relatable and effective.

“She shares clear, no-nonsense information that actually works in busy, everyday life,” she said. “As a mum herself, she understands what’s realistic for families.”

Ms Sturme said Ms Berkett would also attend an upcoming board meeting to support trustees in building their understanding of trauma-informed care and student wellbeing.

Tickets for the event are available through Humanitix at $25 per person, with links on the Edgecumbe School Facebook page. Room 10 students

will be selling cake and coffee on the night as a fundraiser for their upcoming camp.