EBSA
Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
Some children and young people find it very difficult to attend school because of anxiety or emotional distress. This is known as EBSA – Emotionally Based School Avoidance. It is very different from truancy: children with EBSA often want to attend school but feel unable to because of overwhelming feelings.
Signs of EBSA
Children may show EBSA in different ways. Signs can include:
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Frequent worries about going to school
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Complaints of tummy aches, headaches, or feeling unwell in the mornings
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Tearfulness, panic or refusal before school
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Struggling to separate from family at the school gate
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Tiredness due to poor sleep linked to worry
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Falling behind in learning or avoiding schoolwork
How We Support in School
At Woodchurch, we work in partnership with families to reduce barriers and build confidence. Support may include:
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Working closely with families to understand a child’s worries
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Creating a gentle, step-by-step plan for returning to school
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Providing a safe space in school where children can calm down if needed
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Using strategies such as worry boxes, visual timetables and regular check-ins
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Building positive relationships so that children feel safe, valued and supported
How You Can Help at Home
Parents and carers can also play an important role. Helpful strategies include:
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Keeping calm, predictable routines in the mornings
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Listening to your child’s worries and offering reassurance
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Encouraging small, achievable steps back into school (e.g. visiting the playground after school hours)
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Praising every success, however small
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Staying in close contact with school so we can work together
Useful Resources
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Young Minds – School anxiety and refusal
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Anna Freud Centre – EBSA resources
We’re Here to Help
If your child is struggling with EBSA, please speak to their class teacher or our Inclusion Leader, Mrs Butcher. Together, we will work with you to create a plan that helps your child feel supported, safe, and able to return to learning.