At Can’t Face School, we work alongside families and schools to support children and young people experiencing school avoidance. We have designed a wraparound model that can be used in schools to address school engagement and attendance.
Our approach is flexible, practical, and centred around the individual needs of each child, helping them gradually rebuild confidence and re-engage with school in a way that feels achievable. Our model connects with that ‘sense of belonging’ which schools understand is a core part of the community.
A personalised approach
There is no single solution to managing school refusal, this is why our wraparound model is flexible and creative, but follows an evidence based and structured approach.
We take the time to understand what’s happening for young people, looking at the bigger picture, including emotional wellbeing, school experiences, learning needs, and family context.
From there, we follow our ‘Work It Out’ model to develop a clear and realistic plan that supports young people to return to school at a pace that feels manageable.
Working with families and schools
Supporting a child back to school is most effective when everyone is working together.
Our school reengagement specialists collaborate closely with young people, families, schools, and other professionals involved to ensure there is a shared understanding and a consistent approach. This helps reduce confusion, build trust, and create a more supportive environment for the young person.
Where needed, we can attend school meetings, help guide conversations, and support the development of practical strategies that can be implemented both at home and in the classroom.
Practical, action-focused support
Our work is not just about understanding the problem, it’s about helping everyone move forward.
We provide clear, practical strategies that can be used day-to-day, whether that’s supporting morning routines, building confidence, building self esteem, or navigating challenges within the school environment.
We focus on small, achievable steps that build over time, helping young people experience success through a strength based approach, and gradually reconnect with school and learning.
Supporting the whole child
School refusal is often connected to a range of underlying factors, including anxiety, social challenges, learning differences, or neurodivergence.
We take a holistic approach, recognising that supporting a child back to school also means supporting their wellbeing, sense of safety, and confidence.
Our goal is not just attendance, but helping children feel more settled, capable, and connected in their school environment. Every child has the right to feel like they can flourish in their life, feel happy, and feel like they can contribute to society.
Flexible support options
We offer a range of support options for families depending on your needs, including:
- Initial consultations to understand your situation
- Action planning sessions to guide next steps
- Ongoing support for families and schools
- School meetings and collaboration support
- Workshops and training for educators
Support can be delivered virtually or in person as required.
A gradual path back to school
Returning to school doesn’t happen overnight.
We support families to not stay stagnant, but take a gradual, step-by-step approach that reduces pressure and builds confidence over time.
This might begin with small changes and progress toward increased engagement as the child feels more ready. Through realistic goal setting, reducing pressure for a while, and following our ‘Work It Out’ model we have proven we can make a positive change.
By focusing on progress rather than perfection, we help create a pathway that is both realistic and sustainable. It is important to really understand the problem first before throwing a solution at it.
You’re not alone
We know how challenging and overwhelming school refusal can feel for families and for schools.
Our role is to provide guidance, support, and a clear path forward, so you’re not navigating this on your own, and that you feel like you can make progress.
If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help.