Positive Handling

The SEND Transport Officer ensures Travel Assistant’s and Drivers are aware of their duties of care and follow the law. If an urgent situation occurs any staff member may act to keep themselves or others safe in a way that is reasonable in the circumstances. The law states that it is permissible to use reasonable force to prevent student’s committing an offence, injuring themselves or others, or damaging property, and to maintain good order and discipline in the vehicle. The latest guidance from the DfE can be found here: DfE Behaviour in Schools February 2024. The use of physical intervention techniques is only one aspect of co-regulation and is usually the last resort when it is deemed absolutely necessary. It may resolve a short-term situation, but the long-term aim must be to help the student to be able to self-regulate themselves during times of stress. If such actions are necessary, the actions that we take aim to use the minimum amount of force necessary for the minimum amount of time necessary. Where positive handling is needed, this is recorded on a serious incident report and reported immediately to the SEND Transport Officer. (Appendix 4)