INTRODUCTION OF COURSE

Positive Handling training provides school and care staff with the knowledge and skills to manage challenging behaviour safely and appropriately, using physical intervention only as a last resort. The course focuses on preventative strategies, de-escalation techniques, and safe, lawful use of physical interventions when necessary to protect pupils, staff, and others. Positive Handling supports a culture of respect, dignity, and safety while helping staff meet their legal and professional responsibilities.

TRAINING COURSE CONTENT

This Positive Handling course covers:

✅ Understanding positive handling and when it may be necessary

Learners will explore what is meant by positive handling, the distinction between physical intervention and restraint, and the circumstances in which positive handling may be used lawfully to prevent harm.

✅ Causes and triggers of challenging behaviour

This section looks at the common causes of challenging behaviour in children and young people, including emotional, environmental, and situational factors. Learners will understand how early identification of triggers helps prevent escalation.

✅ De-escalation and early intervention strategies

Learners will study practical methods for calming situations before they escalate, including positive communication, use of space, distraction techniques, and offering choices to defuse tension.

✅ Safe physical intervention and breakaway techniques

This section covers low-risk positive handling techniques designed to protect the safety of everyone involved. Learners will explore guiding, prompting, and disengagement skills that minimise the risk of injury and maintain dignity. There is an emphasis on teamwork, proportionality, and necessity.

✅ Legal and policy framework for positive handling

Learners will review the relevant legislation and guidance, including the Education and Inspections Act 2006, Human Rights Act 1998, and Department for Education guidance on the use of reasonable force. The course reinforces staff duties around duty of care, proportionality, and accountability.

✅ Recording, reporting, and reflecting on positive handling incidents

This section explains how to document physical intervention incidents clearly, factually, and in line with organisational policies. Learners will understand the role of reflective practice in improving future approaches and reducing the need for intervention.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, learners will:

• Understand the principles of positive handling and when it may be appropriate

• Recognise common triggers for challenging behaviour and apply early intervention

• Use de-escalation techniques to prevent the need for physical intervention

• Demonstrate awareness of safe and lawful positive handling techniques

• Understand the legal and policy frameworks governing positive handling

• Accurately record and report incidents involving physical intervention

• Appreciate the importance of reflection and continuous improvement

TRAINING QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question: What is positive handling?

Answer: The use of planned, proportionate physical intervention as a last resort to prevent harm, combined with preventative and de-escalation strategies.

Question: When can physical intervention be used in schools or care settings?

Answer: When it is necessary to prevent harm to the individual, others, or serious damage to property, and when other strategies have not worked.

Question: Why is accurate record keeping important after a positive handling incident?

Answer: To provide accountability, support safeguarding, and help review and improve practice.

Question: Give an example of a de-escalation strategy.

Answer: Speaking calmly and offering clear, simple choices to the individual.