Module overview​

Course introduction​

Our Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) module provides a clear and critical foundation for understanding how early adversity can shape health, behaviour and wellbeing across a lifetime. It explores the original ACE framework, how it has evolved and why professionals across sectors increasingly use ACE-informed thinking to support children, young people and adults.

The course examines the growing evidence linking childhood stress and trauma to later outcomes, highlighting the biological, psychological and social mechanisms that can influence development. You will learn how ACEs may present differently from person to person, how protective factors can buffer their effects and why trauma-aware services must avoid simplistic assumptions based solely on an ACE score.

Alongside the theory, this module focuses on practical skills for recognising the signs of ACE-related stress, responding supportively and contributing to safer systems that avoid re-traumatisation. The content is grounded in survivor perspectives and international research, helping you translate insight into everyday practice.

This learning module is designed for professionals, caregivers and organisations supporting children, families and adults who may have experienced adversity – whether disclosed, undisclosed or unrecognised. It is suitable for both individuals and teams working toward more compassionate, evidence-based approaches.

Learning outcomes​

By the end of this ACEs module, you will be able to:

• Explain what ACEs are, how the framework was developed and where its limitations lie

• Understand the long-term effects of toxic stress on the brain, body, behaviour and relationships

• Recognise that outcomes are shaped not only by adversity but also by resilience, community and context

• Respond to trauma-related behaviours with curiosity, empathy and proportionate action

• Identify how systemic factors – including discrimination, poverty and social exclusion – influence the impact of ACEs

• Apply trauma-aware strategies that avoid judgement, reduce harm and support safety, connection and empowerment

This module emphasises the importance of ACE-informed practice as a pathway to healthier relationships, more inclusive services and stronger communities.

About the course

The course follows a linear structure. There are three buttons available: Previous Lesson/Topic, Mark Complete, and Next Lesson/Topic.

If you’re going through the course for the first time, please use the Mark Complete button as you finish each lesson. The Next Topic button is meant for navigation and is especially useful when revisiting the course.

For first-time learners, the module must be completed in order, following the structured path. However, if you’re revisiting the module, you can freely navigate and access any lesson or topic as needed.

What if the course brings up certain thoughts and feelings for me; who can I talk to?

Thinking and learning about childhood adversity will certainly be difficult for some people. If you are affected by any of the course content, please call NAPAC’s support line on 0808 801 0331 and talk to someone. We offer a free confidential listening service on calls of up to half an hour and can signpost you towards services that may be available in your area for longer term support. Our support line is open from 10am-9pm Mon-Thu and 10am-6pm on Fridays.

If you need to talk to someone outside of NAPAC’s opening hours, you can call the Samaritans 24/7 365 days a year on 116 123.

Click on the first course module below to start studying.