Education and families
Emotionally Based School Avoidance
We know that having a child who finds it hard to go to school because of Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) can be very tough. Your child’s struggles are real, and your care and hard work make a big difference.
So that we can help families, we asked parents and carers what support they need. Many asked for clear, accessible information and practical advice around helping their child. These webpages have been developed following parents’ feedback.
We’ve created resources for schools to learn more about EBSA and how to help children and families experiencing challenges with attendance EBSA advice and guidance for schools and settings. The school web pages focus on understanding why children might not attend school, and how to support them.
We are also providing additional training and resources to schools. This will help them to better understand how EBSA affects children and their families, and give new ideas of how to support children experiencing it.
Help and support for parents
To help support school attendance we’ve provided advice on things you can try at home, actions your child’s school can take and details of other support services in Devon.
Sometimes missing school or some lessons
My child has some worries about going to school, and/or is missing whole days of school, or some lessons, now and then.
Regularly missing school or lessons
My child is missing school more regularly (once a week or fortnight), due to feeling worried.
Missing a lot of school or isn't attending
My child has been out of school for a long time, or is still struggling to attend despite support being offered.
Factors that can help school attendance
Guidance about each of the key four factors that may influence improved school attendance and some advice on things you can try with your child to support these.
Devon's approach to supporting school attendance
In Devon we’re aiming to create a clear pathway of graduated attendance support, from ordinarily available to specific, that can be accessed at the right time.
Information and resources for schools
Information and guidance to help schools and teaching staff support young people who are experiencing EBSA