At Bridge Forward, we strengthen the connection between families and schools to create the best possible outcomes for every child. Through trauma-informed mediation, relational support, and collaborative problem-solving, we help communities move from conflict to understanding improving attendance; behaviour, and welibeing along the way.
WHY CHOOSE US ?
All About Me
Hello, I’m Nicola Allen, CEO of Bridge Forward — a space dedicated to helping children and families build stronger relationships, deepen emotional understanding, and develop the confidence they need to thrive.
I’m a Thrive Trainer, Practitioner, and Family Thrive Course Leader, as well as a Drawing and Talking Practitioner, Nurture UK–trained professional and a Senior Fellow of International Forums of Inclusion Practitioners (IFIP).
For 14 years, I worked in a primary school as a Senior Learning Mentor, where I introduced and embedded the Thrive Approach across the whole school. This work led us to become a Thrive School of Excellence — something I remain incredibly proud of.
I’m currently privileged to be working across the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, supporting children and families with social, emotional, behavioural, and attendance reintegration within both primary and secondary settings.
Being a Thrive Trainer is a truly rewarding part of my role. Supporting other professionals to confidently embed the Thrive Approach within their own settings — and witnessing the positive impact it has on children, families, and school communities — is deeply meaningful to me. It’s a privilege to help create environments where every child feels safe, understood, and ready to learn. Through
Bridge Forward, I bring together my experience and passion for supporting children and families. I believe lasting change happens when parents feel genuinely included and supported in their child’s journey — especially when navigating social, emotional, or mental health challenges. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking at conferences about the power of relationships and parental involvement, and I continue to champion the belief that every child deserves to be understood, connected, and given the tools to flourish.
Family-School Mediation: Structured, trauma-informed conversations to resolve conflicts.
Attendace support: Identifying and addressing barriers to inconsistent attendance.
Behaviour support and guidance: Collaborative strategies for positive behaviour.
Relationship and communication building: Strengthening trust and collaboration.
“When schools and families are connected, students move forward with confidence.”
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The questions we get asked the most…
“Who does Bridge Forward support?”
“What makes Bridge Forward different?”
“How does Bridge Forward help bridge the gap between schools and families?”
“How can I start with Bridge Forward?”
We support students, families, schools and individual practitioners, especially those navigating academic challenges, transitions or systemic barriers. Our goal is to ensure families feel informed and empowered whilst schools receive collaborative support.
We focus on creating a partnership using a non-judgmental approach. Bridge Forward meets families and schools where they are, offering culturally responsive, student-centred support that prioritises understanding, trust and long-term success.
We act as trusted partners to help improve communication, offer educational guidance and connect families to the right resources. We help translate school processes, support student needs and foster collaboration that leads to better outcomes.
Families and schools can reach out directly to schedule a consultation. We listen first, identify needs and create a plan to “Bridge Forward” together.
