- Develop a clear understanding of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) within the autism spectrum and how anxiety and control needs drive demand-avoidant behaviours in primary-aged pupils.
- Explore the early signs of rising anxiety and how to use calm, relational responses that reduce pressure and help pupils feel safe and understood.
- Learn practical strategies—including low-demand approaches, collaborative problem solving, and flexible communication—to support engagement and reduce escalation.
- Build confidence in creating predictable, nurturing classroom environments that enable pupils with ASC and PDA profiles to participate, regulate and experience success.

This session helps primary staff develop a deeper understanding of PDA-style profiles within the autism spectrum and the intense anxiety that often drives demand-avoidant behaviours. Through a relational and child-centred approach, participants explore how to recognise rising anxiety, reduce perceived pressure and respond in ways that help pupils feel safe, understood and in control.
The course offers practical, low-demand strategies, flexible communication techniques and collaborative problem-solving approaches that support engagement without escalation.
Staff will leave with increased confidence in creating predictable, nurturing classroom environments where pupils with ASC and PDA behaviours can regulate, connect and thrive.