Supporting ākonga with disruptive, impulse control and conduct disorders: for teacher aides

Introduction

Learning and behaviour are closely connected. In many classrooms across Aotearoa New Zealand, non-conforming behaviour can significantly impact learning. At times, students with disruptive, impulse control, or conduct disorders may affect learning, pose risks to others, and require additional support to manage safely and effectively.

This course introduces you to these disorders and their common characteristics, highlighting how classroom environments can influence behaviour. You’ll learn practical, easy-to-implement strategies to support ākonga in managing behaviours that interfere with learning.

Why this course?

Teacher aides often work with ākonga who show disruptive or challenging behaviours. This course builds your knowledge and confidence to respond in ways that are both effective and positive.

You’ll be guided through essential knowledge about disruptive, impulse control, and conduct disorders, and introduced to tools and approaches that can be applied immediately in your role as a teacher aide. 

What to expect

This is a self-paced, two-hour online course created by a learning specialist. You can begin anytime and complete the course at your own pace.  

Learning outcomes

By completing this course, you will: 

• develop an understanding of the terms and language associated with, disruptive, impulse control, and conduct disorders 

• contribute to discussions on the characteristics of these disorders 

• understand the environmental factors that can influence behaviour in classroom and playground settings 

• build a kete of positive behaviour support strategies to reduce escalation and promote engagement 

• learn culturally responsive ways to address behavioural challenges 

• strengthen your ability to work in culturally appropriate ways with whānau of tamariki with conduct disorders. 

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for teacher aides across all levels who support ākonga presenting with challenging behaviour related to disruptive, impulse control, and conduct disorders, or for those who want to expand their knowledge of how to work effectively with neurodiverse learners. 

Time commitment

Approximately 2 hours (self-paced).

Course alignment

This course aligns with the following Teacher Aide Competencies:

• Neurodiversity

• Behaviour

• Inclusion

• Wellbeing

• Learning support

• Cultural competence

• Professional skills

Your investment

This course costs $99 + GST per participant. A 10% discount applies for three or more from the same school or kura.

Need more information?

Contact Andrea Hamilton