Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)

Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)

Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), sometimes referred to as school refusal, Emotional Based School Refusal (EBSR), or Anxiety Related Non-Attendance (ARNA), describes situations where a child or young person has difficulty attending school due to emotional factors.

This can sometimes lead to extended periods of absence from education.

Understanding EBSA

EBSA is different from absence due to physical illness or truancy.

Children and young people experiencing EBSA often experience high levels of anxiety and distress linked to attending school. In many cases, they want to attend and remain engaged with learning but feel unable to do so.

It is common for anxiety levels to reduce during weekends or school holidays, when the pressure of attending school is not present.

Support in Wakefield

Wakefield Council recognises the impact that EBSA can have on children, young people, and their families.

The Educational Psychology Service has developed a range of resources to support understanding and provide practical guidance.

These include booklets for:

• Parents and carers
• Children and young people

These resources can help families and professionals better understand EBSA and explore supportive approaches to re-engagement with education.