Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) refers to situations where a child or young person struggles to attend a place of learning due to their emotions feeling overwhelming.
This might be due to anxiety, stress, worry, or other emotional difficulties that make the idea of going to the place of learning feel too much.
EBSA is not a choice or a lack of motivation—it may be a sign that the child or young person is experiencing a level of distress that needs understanding and support.
It is important to speak with the place of learning and the child or young person’s GP as soon as soon as any early signs of educational-related anxiety, refusal or avoidance arise.
Early conversations may help prevent difficulties from escalating and ensure the right support is put in place quickly.
The child or young person’s GP may consider whether a referral to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) would be helpful, especially if the emotional distress is significantly affecting day to day life. Parents or young people can also reach out to Just One Norfolk to see if they are able to offer further support.
Arranging a meeting with the place of learning is another key first step.
It’s important to gain a full understanding of how the child or young person is feeling, and what might be contributing to their anxiety. Discussions around what adjustments or support strategies could help them feel safer and more able to attend are important.
It’s essential that the child or young person is involved in this process in some way—this could be directly, through drawings, notes, or conversations—so that their views, wishes, and feelings are heard and considered.