Beck Thompson
Author, Teacher, Speaker
This unforgettable keynote is both deeply personal and profoundly moving. Beck shares her lived story of navigating childhood trauma through her primary and secondary years—years marked by pain, fear, and survival. Yet, woven through her journey is the steady thread of caring, nurturing teachers whose presence became her lifeline when life felt unbearable.
Far more than a story of hardship, this session is a testament to the power of educators. Beck reveals how simple, everyday acts of compassion from teachers can transform a child’s trajectory. Attendees will walk away not only inspired but equipped with practical, immediately actionable strategies that can be woven into any classroom to make a lasting difference.
This is not just a presentation—it’s an invitation to see the extraordinary impact teachers have, often in the smallest of moments. A must-book for schools and conferences committed to student wellbeing, mental health, and trauma-informed practice.
Beck’s courage in sharing her story is impressive. She is a clear example that trauma-aware thinking and practice in schools is vital – and can lead to students living with the outcomes of complex trauma – having very different life trajectories. Beck has reminded us yet again that our children and young people who have lived through this type of trauma are “worth it” and we must continue to adapt our processes in schools to support their recovery and growth.
Dr Judith Howard, Associate Professor, Faculty of Creative Industries, Education & Social Justice, School of Early Childhood & Inclusive Education, QUT, Qld
Ultimately, Beck story proves that what teachers do matter and can save lives.
This is a unique and valuable opportunity, not to be missed!
More Than Theory: A Lived Experience That Opens Educators’ Eyes
Perfect for education conferences and professional development sessions where you want to move beyond theory and truly understand the lived impact of trauma. Beck’s story opens educators’ eyes in ways they don’t fully grasp until they hear it — leaving them changed, inspired, and equipped to act.
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In this 60-minute session, you will:
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Recognise the profound impact you can have in shaping a trauma-affected child’s life
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Hear how teachers became the only constant in Beck’s world — and ultimately saved her
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See how Beck’s lived experience of trauma gave her a powerful lens as an educator
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Understand what many students carry from unsafe homes into the classroom each day
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Deepen your insight into how trauma influences learning, engagement, relationships, and behaviour
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Walk away with practical strategies you can use immediately — small, powerful actions that create lasting change
Hear What Educators Have Had to Say
This is a story that needs to be told and heard by every teacher who has ever doubted that they have the power to make a difference. Denise, Teacher, Qld.
'This was the bravest story I've ever witnessed.' Michael, Behaviour Management Specialist, Qld
'I have taught many children who have been victims of trauma but to hear it first hand, the significance of school on a trauma child was incredibly valuable. This was an incredibly valuable sessions which reframes your thinking around the importance of school to a child who is experiencing trauma at home.' Teacher, Qld
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‘Beck's story has an impact that leads to instant change in the way teachers work with children the following day!’ Natalie, Head of Differentiation, Qld
This session was incredibly valuable. Thankyou Beck for giving our staff hope for our students and showing them they matter in the lives of our young people. - Leann, Principal
You gave real insight to what some children are struggling with daily. It was real to hear it from someone with true understanding and lived experience. Shirley, Teacher
An incredibly powerful session which reframes your thinking around the importance of school to a child who is suffering trauma. Abbie, Teacher
A heart wrenching story that touches the heart of others. A true reminder to all that teach. Claire, Teacher
Really valuable session. I wish I had heard this a lot earlier in my career. Sandra, Teacher
Very well presented. The structure of starting with your story, not only had an effect in providing insight and context but made everything you said legitimate and reliable. - Maryann, Teacher
Extremely valuable session. - Rhonda, Teacher
For availability and bookings please contact Beck