Positive Handling: Creating Safer Educational Environments

Key Takeaways

  • Positive Handling is a comprehensive approach that prioritises prevention and de-escalation, with physical intervention as a last resort

  • Thrive Education's training provides legal clarity and confidence for staff when managing challenging behavior

  • Our accredited courses are delivered by experienced educators with over 15 years in educational settings

  • Training covers prevention, de-escalation, safe intervention techniques, and post-incident support

  • Bespoke programs are tailored to your school's specific needs and challenges

  • Evidence-based approaches align with Restraint Reduction Network standards and current DfE guidance

  • Schools report significant improvements in behavior management and staff confidence

Educators face increasingly complex behavioural challenges that require both compassion and competence. Thrive Education's Positive Handling training equips school staff with evidence-based strategies to manage challenging situations safely, legally, and effectively—prioritising the wellbeing of both pupils and staff while fostering a positive school culture.

Understanding Positive Handling in Education

Positive Handling comprises much more than physical intervention; it represents a comprehensive approach to behaviour management that emphasises prevention, de-escalation, and appropriate response. The Department for Education guidance defines it as ‘reasonable force to prevent pupils from hurting themselves or others, from damaging property, or from causing disorder’. However, effective Positive Handling extends far beyond this basic definition.

A central tenant of Positive Handling is the creation of an environment where physical intervention becomes the last resort, not the first response. This philosophy aligns with both legal requirements and best practice in child-centred education, recognising that behaviour is communication and that our responses must be both proportionate and supportive.

The Legal Framework: Understanding Your Responsibilities

School staff can be uncertain about their legal position when managing challenging behaviour. This uncertainty can lead to hesitation in situations where prompt action is necessary, potentially compromising safety.

Thrive Education's training provides comprehensive coverage of the legal framework surrounding Positive Handling, including:

  • Section 93 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006, which provides statutory power for school staff to use reasonable force

  • The Children Act 1989, which establishes the concept of 'reasonable force' in relation to children

  • Health and Safety at Work legislation that places duties on both employers and employees

  • Equality Act considerations for pupils with special educational needs or disabilities

  • Department for Education guidance on the 'Use of Reasonable Force'

Understanding this framework gives staff the confidence to act decisively when necessary, knowing they are operating within clear legal boundaries. As one headteacher noted after implementing our training: ‘The legal clarity provided has transformed how our staff approach challenging situations: they now act with confidence rather than fear’.

Beyond Physical Intervention: A Comprehensive Approach

Thrive Education's Positive Handling training stands apart through its emphasis on a complete behaviour management system, not just physical techniques. Our accredited courses, delivered by qualified professionals with over 15 years of educational experience, cover:

1. Prevention and De-escalation

Research consistently demonstrates that most incidents can be prevented or de-escalated before physical intervention becomes necessary (Slaatto et al., 2021). A systematic review found that various interventions focused on prevention and de-escalation led to significant reductions in conflicts and the need for physical restraint in youth facilities. Our training incorporates:

  • The Aggression Curve model for identifying early warning signs

  • Emotional intelligence workshops to enhance staff awareness

  • Communication strategies that reduce tension rather than escalate it

  • Environmental considerations that minimise triggers

  • Trauma-informed approaches that recognise underlying causes of behaviour

2. Risk Assessment and Planning

Effective Positive Handling begins with thorough preparation:

  • Individual behaviour risk assessments for pupils with known challenges

  • Whole-school behaviour policies that establish clear expectations

  • Team planning for consistent responses to challenging situations

  • Documentation systems that ensure proper recording and reflection

3. Physical Intervention Techniques

When all else fails, staff must know how to intervene safely:

  • Gradual and graded responses proportionate to the situation

  • Techniques specifically designed for educational settings

  • Age and size-appropriate approaches for different pupil groups

  • Methods that minimise risk while maintaining dignity

  • Team-based interventions that distribute responsibility

4. Post-Incident Support and Learning

Every incident provides an opportunity for growth:

  • Debriefing protocols for staff and pupils

  • Recording and reporting requirements

  • Restorative practices to rebuild relationships

  • Analysis to prevent future occurrences

  • Support for the emotional wellbeing of all involved

The Thrive Education Difference

What sets Thrive Education's Positive Handling training apart is our commitment to bespoke, practical training that addresses your school's specific needs. Our courses are:

Tailored to Your Context

We recognise that every school faces unique challenges. Our training is customized to address:

  • Your specific pupil demographic and needs

  • Previous incidents and concerns

  • Existing behaviour policies and approaches

  • Staff experience levels and confidence

  • Physical environment considerations

Delivered by Experienced Educators

Our trainers bring real-world educational experience, ensuring that all content is:

  • Practical and immediately applicable

  • Grounded in classroom realities

  • Delivered with empathy and understanding

  • Focused on solutions, not just theory

Evidence-Based and Accredited

All our training is:

  • Fully accredited and recognised

  • Aligned with the Restraint Reduction Network standards

  • Based on current research and best practice

  • Regularly updated to reflect evolving guidance

Comprehensive and Accessible

We offer flexible delivery options:

  • Full-day intensive training

  • Half-day focused sessions

  • Twilight refresher courses

  • Blended learning approaches

  • Ongoing support and consultation

Measurable Outcomes: The Impact of Effective Training

Schools implementing Thrive Education's Positive Handling training report significant improvements:

  • Substantial reduction in serious behavioural incidents requiring physical intervention

  • Increased staff confidence in managing challenging behaviour

  • Decreased staff injuries related to behavioural incidents

  • Improved Ofsted ratings for behaviour management

  • Enhanced school culture and pupil wellbeing

As one Special Educational Needs Coordinator shared: ‘The emphasis on de-escalation techniques and understanding the neurophysiology behind behaviour has transformed our approach. Our staff now have the confidence and skills to prevent situations from escalating, and when intervention is necessary, they can do so safely and effectively’.

Investing in Safety and Wellbeing

Investing in high-quality Positive Handling training is not merely about compliance—it’s about creating educational environments where both staff and pupils feel safe, respected, and supported. When staff are properly equipped with knowledge, skills, and confidence, they can focus on what matters most: teaching and nurturing the young people in their care.

Thrive Education’s Positive Handling training provides your school with a comprehensive framework that balances legal compliance, practical skills, and compassionate approaches to behaviour management. Our experienced trainers work alongside your team to develop bespoke solutions that address your specific needs and challenges.

Contact Thrive Education today to discuss how our Positive Handling training can support your school in creating safer, more positive learning environments where everyone can thrive.

References:

Department for Education. (2013). Use of reasonable force: Advice for headteachers, staff and governing bodies.

Restraint Reduction Network. (2019). Restraint Reduction Network Training Standards.

Education and Inspections Act 2006, Section 93.

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Slaatto, A., Bjørngaard, J. H., Kulseth, M. A., Lohre, A., Bjørge, H., & Aasly, J. (2021). Conflict prevention, de-escalation and restraint in children/youth inpatient and residential facilities: A systematic mapping review. Children and Youth Services Review, 127, 106073.