Education and families
Emotionally Based School Avoidance
If a child or young person starts to feel worried about going to school, they might find it hard to go to lessons, or even avoid going to school altogether. They may become very stressed about attending school – this is called Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA).
We have been working with children, parents and carers, teachers and other education and health professionals to develop an understanding around EBSA and provide resources, so that the right support for children can be accessed when they need 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
The Devon Supporting School Attendance project aims to create a clear pathway of graduated attendance support from universal to specialist, 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