CPD activity exploring stress stacking, dysregulation and behaviour using the PAIN Framework for primary and secondary staff.

This practical CPD resource helps school staff develop a deeper understanding of stress stacking, dysregulation and behaviour. It is suitable for use in primary and secondary schools with all staff.

Based on the idea that behaviour is often the result of accumulated stressors rather than a single trigger, the activity encourages participants to move beyond asking ‘What happened?’, instead considering what pressures may have been building before this happened.

Using the"Elastic Band Child" metaphor, participants identify a pupil they know well, reflect on a recent incident and explore possible underlying stressors using the PAIN Framework (Physical, Emotional, Cognitive, Social, Prosocial and Transition needs).

This resource includes:
A structured reflection activity based on a real-life pupil
Exploration of visible triggers versus underlying stressors
Application of the PAIN Framework to behaviour and regulation
Professional discussion and reflection questions
A focus on preventative, needs-led support
Links to SEND, SEMH, inclusion and trauma-informed practice
Guidance for moving from behaviour management towards regulation support

Resource Attribution:
The resource was created by me and includes an original reflection activity inspired by the podcast “When Behaviour Seems to Come Out of Nowhere: Understanding Stress Stacking” by Simon Currigan of Beacon School Support.

The podcast is referenced as the stimulus material for the learning activity and remains the intellectual property of its creator. The accompanying activity, reflection questions and application of the PAIN Framework were developed independently for staff training and professional development purposes.