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Understanding Behaviour That Challenges

Course Code: CUBTC
  • Level: 2
  • Qualification: Certificate
  • Awarding body: Northern Council for Further Education (NCFE)
  • Duration: Six weeks
  • Course type: Short course
  • Time of day: Evening
  • When you'll study: Thursdays, 4.00pm - 6.00pm

What's it all about?

This course will equip you with essential knowledge and practical skills to manage and support individuals exhibiting challenging behaviour. It delves into the causes, triggers, and strategies for promoting positive behaviour, focusing on educational, healthcare, and care settings. Through interactive learning, including case studies, role-play, and group discussions, you will develop empathy, communication skills, and effective behaviour management techniques. Ideal for professionals in health, social care, and education, this course provides the tools to create safer, more inclusive environments.

Course information

The course covers the following topics …

Introduction to Behaviour that Challenges 


  • Definitions and examples of challenging behaviour in different settings (educational, social care, healthcare).
  • Exploration of societal norms and perceptions of challenging behaviour.
Impact of Challenging Behaviour

  • How challenging behaviour affects the individual, peers, staff, and family members.
  • Analysing case studies to understand the wider implications and emotional impact.
Causes and Triggers of Behaviour

  • Identifying common triggers and patterns of challenging behaviour.
  • Developing risk assessment techniques and preventative strategies.
Communication Strategies

  • Examining verbal and non-verbal communication methods, including assistive technologies.
  • Overcoming barriers to communication with individuals who exhibit challenging behaviour.
Positive Behaviour Support and De-escalation Techniques

  • Using positive reinforcement, early warning signs, and de-escalation strategies to manage behaviour effectively.
  • Practical techniques to promote a calmer, safer environment for all involved.
Reflective Practice and Support Systems

  • Using reflective models (eg Gibbs and Driscoll) to assess past responses to challenging behaviour.
  • Exploring formal and informal support systems available for both individuals and professionals.

There are no specific entry requirements for this course. However, you may find it helpful if you’ve already achieved a level 1 qualification in healthcare, social care, childcare or supporting learning.

A workbook will be completed and assessed, followed by an Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) review.

Upon successful completion, you may progress to a range of courses including the Certificate in Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences and Certificate in Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health.

Please note fees are quoted for one year only.

Download course PDF

Future careers

What you could earn:

Social Workers

£49,274.84

Potential salary

£18,577.38

Entry level salary

£34,237.00

Average salary

23

Annual openings in Plymouth

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