Meet Dr. Mary Maclachlan:

A Passion for Compassionate Education.

I’m Dr. Mary Maclachlan, founder of Heartwood UK. My journey has taken me from medical law into the world of education, where I have spent over a decade developing trauma-informed approaches to support children, parents, and educators.

  • Founder of The Wood School, Manchester (2010 – present)
  • Developer of Talking Helps program in partnership with Manchester CC & Catalyst Educational Psychologists
  • Trainer in Active Listening & Parent Effectiveness Training
  • Former medical law professional

HEARTWOOD UK

“Dr. Maclachlan’s approach transformed the way our school supports students’ emotional well-being.”

“Dr. Maclachlan’s approach transformed the way our school supports students’ emotional well-being.”

From Medical Law to Forest Schools

In 2010, I set up The Wood School in Manchester and led Forest School years – 2010- to date. I have worked with hundreds of children. I have found that when they have an opportunity to show it, young people have great empathy and surprising creativity to fix conflicts both internally and externally. Acceptance of their strong feelings is often all that is needed to bring them peace. I previously worked in medical law.

compassionate communication

I am passionate about sharing skills which enhance communication and develop understanding, creating compassionate relationships in education and family settings. The approach in my work is Trauma-informed and draws on Parent Effectiveness Training (PET), Active Listening and Non Violent Communication (NVC). These techniques have been developed to support our ability to connect without blame or judgement.

Talking helps

“The Talking Helps program has given my child the tools to express their emotions constructively.”

Techniques and training

Listening, Learning, and Leading with Heart

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Explore Our Work

Parents

Peaceful Parenting Programme

Schools

Talking Helps & Active Listening

Research

Educational Psychology Studies