Adverse Childhood Experiences

Discover how Adverse Childhood Experiences shape lives and learn strategies to support emotional wellbeing in affected individuals.

Overview

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have a long-term impact on mental and physical health. This course explores how early trauma influences development and behaviour throughout life. Drawing from research, psychology, and public health, it explains the connection between ACEs and challenges in education, relationships, and health. With clear concepts and accessible language, learners will explore how adverse events—such as abuse, neglect, and household instability—can lead to toxic stress and long-lasting consequences.

Whether you’re working in education, social care, mental health or community services, this course equips you with knowledge to recognise signs of early trauma, respond sensitively, and contribute to supportive environments. With a focus on awareness and understanding rather than diagnosis or therapy, the course helps build a strong foundation for working in trauma-informed settings. Learn at your own pace with fully online access, from anywhere in the UK or beyond.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the definition and scope of Adverse Childhood Experiences.
• Identify common types of ACEs and their long-term consequences.
• Recognise behavioural and emotional effects linked to childhood trauma.
• Explain how ACEs affect education, health and relationships.
• Explore protective factors that reduce the impact of early adversity.
• Apply trauma-informed approaches in different professional settings.

Who is this Course For

• Teachers supporting students with emotional or behavioural challenges.
• Youth workers seeking insight into early childhood trauma.
• Social workers handling complex family histories and behaviours.
• Mental health professionals enhancing trauma-related understanding.
• Health visitors engaging with at-risk children and families.
• Early years practitioners managing children with difficult backgrounds.
• Safeguarding officers needing greater clarity on trauma indicators.
• Policymakers aiming to reduce long-term social and health costs.

Career Path

• Family Support Worker – £23,000–£29,000 average salary
• Education Welfare Officer – £25,000–£32,000 average salary
• Youth Justice Worker – £27,000–£35,000 average salary
• Mental Health Support Worker – £22,000–£28,000 average salary
• Safeguarding Officer – £30,000–£40,000 average salary
• Community Outreach Worker – £24,000–£31,000 average salary