What you will learn?
Lecture Slides - Understanding the ACEs Framework
Understanding the ACEs Framework Handout Module 1
Lecture slides for - Applying the ACEs Framework—Screening and Practice
Handout 2 - ACEs Questionnaire
Case study
Answers
To complete this course, you must successfully pass the final multiple-choice assessment. All questions are based on the content covered in the modules, slides, handouts, and case study.
Learners must answer all questions correctly to be eligible to download their CPD certificate.
Please note:
This is a self-paced online assessment.
The certificate issued is a CPD Certificate of Completion (non-accredited), which can be used as self-directed learning evidence for professional development records.
About the course
Course Description:
The ACEs Framework course provides a compassionate, evidence-based approach to understanding how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) shape a child’s life. Participants will explore how early trauma affects behaviour, learning, emotional wellbeing, and long-term outcomes, including the implications of ACEs scores and toxic stress.
This self-paced online course includes:
Over 60 slides for structured learning
Downloadable handouts summarising key concepts
Case studies to apply theory to real-life scenarios
Assessments/exams to reinforce learning
Certificate of completion (5 CPD hours, self-directed, non-accredited)
The course is ideal for teachers, school staff, safeguarding officers, health and social care professionals, and anyone working with children or families. It equips learners with practical strategies to create trauma-informed environments, apply brief interventions, and prioritise self-care when working with ACE-affected individuals.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
Define ACEs and understand their prevalence.
Explain how early trauma affects brain development, behaviour, and learning.
Interpret ACE scores and recognise their implications for health, wellbeing, and education.
Identify signs of toxic stress and understand its long-term impact.
Apply brief intervention strategies to support children and families affected by trauma.
Recognise the importance of self-care and professional resilience.
Learning Outcomes:
Demonstrate a clear understanding of the ACEs framework and its practical application.
Confidently identify children and young people potentially affected by ACEs.
Implement trauma-informed strategies and brief interventions in professional practice.
Integrate self-care practices into professional routines to maintain wellbeing and effectiveness.
Complete the course online at your own pace and receive a non-accredited CPD certificate.
Completion of the introductory ACEs Framework course provides a solid understanding of early trauma, ACEs scores, and their impact on children’s behaviour and wellbeing. To effectively implement the ACEs framework in practice, participants are encouraged to progress to the advanced, practical training programme.
Please note: This course is not yet formally accredited, and CPD hours are based on the estimated learning time.
About the teacher
Dr Lydia Taiwo
DSc Pathology - Patient Testing, ACEs Educator & Specialist Consultant, Diploma Safeguarding &...
Dr. Lydia Taiwo is an award-winning author, trauma-informed educator, and leading specialist consultant on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), toxic stress, and safeguarding practice. With a PhD in Patient Testing and extensive experience in training professionals across education, health, and social care, Dr. Taiwo combines academic expertise with powerful lived experience as an ACEs survivor.
She has authored over a dozen influential books on trauma, safeguarding, and child protection, widely used by educators and practitioners in the UK and internationally. Through her work with Haven Hall, Dr. Taiwo empowers professionals to understand ACEs, recognise trauma, and create safer, more compassionate environments for children, parents, and adult survivors.
Her message is clear and inspiring:
-Your ACE score does not define your destiny — awareness, empathy, and the right support can change everything.
