EBSNA Support

What is EBSNA?

EBSNA is Emotional School Based Non-Attendance

Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA), previously known as Emotional Based School Avoidance, refers to when a child or young person finds it difficult to attend school due to emotional distress. This can include feelings of anxiety, fear, sadness, or overwhelm that make the school environment feel unmanageable.

EBSNA is not the same as truancy. These students often want to attend school and succeed, but their emotional wellbeing creates a barrier. It can affect children of all ages and may develop gradually or suddenly.

Common signs of EBSNA include:

• Frequent complaints of feeling unwell with no clear medical cause

• Difficulty getting to school in the morning

• High levels of worry or anxiety about school

• Avoidance of certain lessons, activities, or social situations

How we support students: At our school, we work closely with families, staff, and external professionals to understand each student’s needs and create a supportive plan. Early intervention, open communication, and a compassionate approach are key to helping students re-engage with learning in a way that feels safe and manageable.

How We Support EBSNA at Laleham Gap

At our school, we work closely with families, staff, and external professionals to understand each student’s needs and create a personalised supportive plan. Early intervention, open communication, and a compassionate approach are key to helping students re-engage with learning in a way that feels safe and manageable.

Our goal is to create a small steps approach where we help children to map their difficulties and aspirations with break through conversations, to gradually and successfully help them re-engage with school.