TRAUMA-INFORMED AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN WARTIME AS A MODEL OF PREVENTIVE SUPPORT FOR TEACHERS AND LEARNERS IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

Abstract

In this article, we substantiate an integrated model of preventive support in vocational education and training (VET) institutions that combines trauma-informed and inclusive approaches under conditions of full-scale war. We show that chronic stress, loss, displacement, and unequal access to resources necessitate framework solutions that ensure safety, predictability, and accessibility of learning for all participants in the educational process, including persons with special educational needs. The study aims to theoretically describe and systematically present a multilevel model aligned with the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and contemporary understandings of psychosocial support. Three complementary levels of prevention are outlined: the universal level (safety policies/protocols, UDL-based course design, psychoeducation, and brief self-regulation micro-practices); the targeted level (short-term group programs incorporating elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, mentoring, and workload adaptations); and the individual level (personal support plans with confidential entry, clear goals, routing to internal and external services, and simple crisis protocols). We also delineate the governance architecture for implementation (a coordinator for inclusion and psychosocial support, a cross-functional support group, standards for educational design, and a “Where to Get Support” communication guide) and the monitoring contour (validated indicators of well-being/engagement/climate, as well as process and outcome metrics within a monitoring-and-evaluation framework). The proposed model reduces the trigger potential of educational situations and the need for numerous individual exceptions while increasing subjective safety, engagement, and learning outcomes, thus supporting staff retention and continuity of professional training in VET institutions. Finally, we outline prospects for mixed-methods empirical evaluation of effectiveness and options for scaling with regard to the security and resource contexts of different regions of Ukraine.