“This training transformed how we approach pupils with PDA profiles. Practical, insightful, and immediately applicable.”
— SENCO, Primary School
Pupils with a PDA profile present unique challenges in the classroom. This CPD course equips teachers and school leaders with the knowledge and strategies to understand and support pupils with Pathological Demand Avoidance as part of the autism spectrum.
What is a PDA Profile?
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is widely understood as a profile within the autism spectrum characterized by:
- Extreme avoidance of everyday demands, even those perceived as low-pressure
- High anxiety levels, often driving the avoidance behavior
- A need for control and autonomy, which can lead to resistance in structured environments
- Social strategies that may mask difficulties, making identification challenging
PDA is not a formal diagnosis in DSM-5 or ICD-11 but is increasingly recognized in UK SEND practice. Understanding PDA is essential for creating inclusive classrooms and reducing stress for pupils and staff alike.
Looking for training on supporting learners with Autistic Spectrum Disorder? Click the link!
JMC Inclusion Team
Why This Course Matters:
- PDA is frequently misunderstood, which can lead to approaches that increase anxiety rather than reduce it.
- Teachers need strategies that are flexible, empathetic, and responsive to help pupils engage and succeed.
- This course provides practical, evidence-informed tools aligned with current SEND best practice.
Inclusive Culture
Creating an inclusive school culture means recognising that pupils with a PDA profile require approaches that go beyond traditional classroom strategies. Inclusion is not just about access—it’s about belonging and psychological safety.
Pupils with PDA often experience heightened anxiety when faced with everyday demands, which can lead to avoidance behaviours that are misunderstood as defiance. By understanding PDA as part of the autism spectrum, schools can adopt flexible, relationship-based strategies that reduce anxiety and empower pupils to engage.
An inclusive culture values adaptability, empathy, and collaboration, ensuring that staff are equipped to respond to individual needs without judgment. This training helps schools embed these principles into daily practice, supporting both pupils and staff to thrive.
Looking for further training on developing an inclusive school culture and inclusive teaching ?
Find out more here
What You Will Learn about Pupils with a PDA Profile:
✅ What is PDA and how it fits within the autism spectrum
✅ Key characteristics and how they differ from other autistic presentations
✅ Practical classroom strategies to reduce anxiety and increase engagement
✅ How to adapt teaching and communication to meet individual needs
✅ Working with parents and external professionals effectively
Who Should is this INSET relevant for :
- Classroom teachers
- SENCOs and Inclusion Leads
- Pastoral staff
- School leaders and MAT SEND teams
Ready to Support Pupils with a PDA Profile?
Give your staff the confidence and strategies they need to create inclusive classrooms for pupils with a PDA profile.
✅ Book this CPD course today
Testimonials:
“I finally feel equipped to support pupils with PDA in a way that reduces anxiety and builds trust.”
— Secondary Teacher
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