Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) refers to young people who struggle to attend school due to emotional challenges. This is sometimes also referred to as Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) or school refusal.

Unlike truancy, which is often linked to anti-social behaviour, EBSNA typically stems from anxiety or emotional distress, making it a distinct and sensitive issue that requires understanding and support.

A shocking report finds that around 500 children a day in England are being referred to NHS mental health services for anxiety. In 2023-24, there were 204,526 new referrals of patients aged 17 and under.

This rise in anxiety in learners can have a direct impact on their school attendance, which has a knock-on effect regarding their learning.

Some factors that can contribute to EBSNA include:

Separation anxiety
Trauma
Interpersonal difficulties
Sensory processing needs
Social communication needs
Autism Spectrum diagnosis
Underlying SEND
Developmental needs

We want you to know that Specialist SEND Group is here to support you in helping your school re-engage its learners.

Our approach is all about connection and confidence-building. By designing engaging, tailored lessons around each student’s interests, our tutors help rekindle a love for learning in a way that feels safe and supportive.

We provide educators with resilience, empathy, and a genuine passion for helping young people succeed. That have experience working with SEND/SEMH students and all Tutors have QTS/QTLS

If you have a cohort of school non-attenders, we are here to chat; please contact our Specialist Tutoring team 01925 906500