Positive Handling in Schools Online Course

In today's inclusive educational environment, handling challenging behavior effectively and legally is not just a best practice—it's a necessity. "Positive Handling in Schools" is a comprehensive, evidence-based training course that equips educators, school staff, and support workers with the knowledge, skills, and legal understanding to manage difficult situations involving children—particularly those with learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, and emotional or behavioral disorders.

This course focuses on the principles of positive handling, including de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed care, and safe physical interventions, all guided by current education laws, government policies, and ethical practices. Delivered in a structured module format, the curriculum explores essential areas such as the aggression curve, SCARF model, duty of care, and restraint law, offering a thorough and practical roadmap for safe and respectful intervention in school settings.

Learners will gain insights into how to reduce restraint, protect student dignity, and comply with safeguarding standards—all while fostering a supportive learning environment for students with complex needs.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand core principles of positive handling in school environments.
• Identify different types of challenging behavior in school settings.
• Learn legal frameworks for safe physical interventions in education.
• Apply trauma-informed approaches to managing behavioral incidents.
• Recognize responsibilities under duty of care and safeguarding.
• Use de-escalation techniques to reduce physical interventions safely.

Course Link: Positive Handling in Schools

Course Curriculum

Module 01: Introduction to Positive Handling in School

• Understanding the need for safe handling
• Key terms, definitions, and legal implications

Module 02: A Serious Business

• Risks of mishandled behavior incidents
• Impact on students, staff, and educational environments

Module 03: The Aggression Curve

• Recognizing early warning signs of behavioral escalation
• Phases of aggression and appropriate interventions

Module 04: Trauma and Disability Management

• Understanding trauma responses in neurodiverse students
• Tailoring approaches for students with disabilities

Module 05: The SCARF Model

Safety, Caring, Achievement, Resilience, and Friendship

Implementing SCARF values in behavioral practice

Module 06: Government Advice and Guidance

• International and national policies on physical intervention
• Adhering to safeguarding and education standards

Module 07: Making Decisions: Duty of Care

• Understanding professional responsibilities
• Balancing rights, risks, and protective actions

Module 08: The Law

• Legal rights of students and responsibilities of staff
• Consequences of unlawful handling and negligence

Module 09: Physical Intervention and Restraint

• Types of physical restraint permitted by law
• Techniques to minimize harm and promote dignity

Module 10: Screening, Searching and Confiscation

• Lawful search practices in school settings
• Dealing with prohibited items safely and respectfully

Disclaimer:

This is an online course with pre-recorded lessons. You will get access to the course within 48 hours after your enrolment.