Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a preventable yet lifelong condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy. It can affect physical development, learning, behaviour, mental health, and everyday functioning across the lifespan. Despite its impact, FAS and Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) are often misunderstood, under-recognised, or misdiagnosed.
This free Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Training Course provides a clear, practical understanding of FAS and FASD, equipping health, education, and social care professionals with the knowledge needed to recognise signs, provide appropriate support, and promote prevention.
Why Take This eLearning Course?
FASD is one of the leading causes of preventable neurodevelopmental disability. Individuals affected may experience lifelong challenges, requiring informed, compassionate, and consistent support across services.
This free course will help you to:
- Understand what Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and FASD are
- Recognise how alcohol affects foetal development
- Identify physical, cognitive, and behavioural signs of FAS
- Understand the lifelong impact of FAS across different life stages
- Support individuals, families, and carers effectively
- Respond appropriately to mental health and behavioural challenges
- Promote awareness and prevention through education and practice
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Explain Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and its relationship to Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
- Describe how alcohol exposure during pregnancy affects foetal development
- Identify key physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioural features of FAS
- Understand the different types of FASD and their characteristics
- Recognise signs of FAS in children, young people, and adults
- Understand diagnostic processes and challenges
- Provide informed, supportive, and person-centred care
- Support families and carers affected by FAS
- Promote prevention and raise awareness of FAS
Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Course Outline
Module 1: Understanding the Basics of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome
Learners will explore what Foetal Alcohol Syndrome is and how it relates to the wider Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). This module explains how alcohol consumption during pregnancy affects foetal development and leads to lifelong physical, behavioural, and cognitive difficulties. Learners will gain an understanding of the key features of FAS and why early awareness is essential.
Module 2: Understanding the Types of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
This module focuses on the different conditions that fall under Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Learners will examine the range of FASD presentations and understand the unique characteristics of each type. The module highlights why individuals may be affected in different ways and to varying degrees.
Module 3: Causes and Risk Factors of FAS
Learners will explore how alcohol impacts prenatal development and the biological mechanisms involved. This module examines common risk factors associated with FAS and FASD, including patterns of alcohol use during pregnancy. Learners will also consider the long-term effects of FAS on individuals and their families.
Module 4: Recognising the Signs and Diagnosis of FAS
This module explains how Foetal Alcohol Syndrome may present in both children and adults. Learners will explore the diagnostic process, including medical, developmental, and behavioural assessments. The module also highlights the challenges involved in diagnosing FAS and why it is often under-recognised or misdiagnosed.
Module 5: Life Stage Impacts of FASD
Learners will examine how FASD affects individuals at different stages of life, from infancy through childhood and adolescence. This module explores the impact on learning, mental health, behaviour, and social development, helping learners understand how needs may change over time.
Module 6: Support and Management Strategies
This module focuses on practical approaches to supporting individuals with FAS. Learners will explore interventions and therapies used to manage symptoms and promote development. The module highlights the role of families, schools, and healthcare professionals in providing consistent, coordinated support.
Module 7: Mental Health and Behavioural Challenges
Learners will explore common mental health conditions associated with FAS, such as anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation difficulties. This module examines behavioural challenges and evidence-informed strategies to support positive behaviour, emotional wellbeing, and stability.
Module 8: Awareness and Prevention of FAS
This module focuses on prevention and public health. Learners will explore the importance of raising awareness about FAS and the role of education in preventing alcohol-related harm during pregnancy. The module highlights how healthcare and care professionals can contribute to prevention through advice, support, and early intervention.
Module 9: Supporting Families and Carers
In the final module, learners will examine the impact of FAS on families and carers. This module explores the emotional, practical, and long-term challenges faced by families and highlights strategies, resources, and support networks that can help carers provide effective and sustainable support.
Target Audience
This course is suitable for:
- Health and social care professionals
- Children’s services and safeguarding staff
- Education professionals and SEN staff
- Family support workers
- Mental health practitioners
- Anyone supporting individuals affected by FAS or FASD
It is appropriate for induction, refresher training, and continuing professional development (CPD).
FAQ
Do I need prior knowledge of FAS or FASD?
No. This course is suitable for beginners and experienced professionals alike.
Is this course relevant to UK practice?
Yes. The content reflects UK health, education, and social care practice and prevention guidance.
How long does the course take?
Most learners complete the course in 3 to 6 hours, depending on experience and learning pace.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. A certificate is issued upon successful completion.
Foetal Alcohol Syndrome is entirely preventable, yet its impact can last a lifetime. With the right knowledge and support, professionals can improve outcomes for individuals, support families more effectively, and play a key role in prevention.
Enrol on the Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Training Course today
Build confidence, improve understanding, and make a meaningful difference across health, education, and social care.
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Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Training Course CPD Accredited and Government Funding
We’re working on getting this Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Training Course CPD accredited, and any course that’s approved will be clearly labelled as CPD accredited on the site. Not every health and social care course has to be accredited to help you meet CQC expectations – what matters is that staff are competent, confident and properly trained for their roles under Regulation 18. Our courses are built to support those requirements, and because they’re not government funded there are no eligibility checks or ID needed – you can enrol and start learning straight away.
