Supporting Children and Young People with Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
Persistent absence, which means missing 10% or more of school, is a growing issue that affects many children and young people. There are many different reasons why children might miss school, and often these reasons are connected to one another. For some children, they may want to go to school but struggle to do so because of emotional distress.
This is known as Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). It’s when emotional challenges, like anxiety or stress, prevent children from attending school. By listening to our children and paying attention to attendance patterns, schools and families can spot the early signs of EBSA. Early support is key to helping children feel more comfortable and confident about going to school. The earlier we act, the better chance we have to prevent long-term absence and ensure children get the support they need.
Resources
Practical resources available for parents, young people and professionals
Shropshire council have collated a range of resources for schools, pupils and parents that can be used to help and support early intervention, as much as possible, for children and young people who are 'at risk' of EBSA.
Explore our online training and resource links on all things SEND, there is an EBSA webinar available to watch in the courses section
Health and Mental Wellbeing Support for EBSA: What Schools Should Offer
When a child or young person is struggling to attend school due to emotional or mental health needs, it’s important to know what support should already be available in mainstream settings. This guide contains information about the health service offer in Shropshire schools to support children with mental health needs, without needing an EHCP. It also outlines the legal duty to make reasonable adjustments, such as offering quiet spaces, flexible routines, or longer appointments, to help reduce barriers and support re-engagement with education.
