Helping Children Reconnect with Learning
Supporting Children Experiencing Emotionally Based School Avoidance
We understand how overwhelming it can feel. That’s why we’ve created a supportive, flexible service that puts emotional wellbeing first.
A flexible approach that meets children where they are
We understand how difficult it is when your child is struggling to attend school (please see the ‘About Us‘ section for more details). Our EBSA Support Service is here to help your child take gentle steps back into learning, in a way that feels manageable and right for them.
We offer flexible, webinar-style classes that they can either join live or watch back later, depending on what feels easier. There’s also the option of a weekly session with a Learning Mentor. Some children prefer to talk face to face on a video call, while others feel more comfortable checking in through their private dashboard space. This might include sharing updates, asking questions about classes or chatting about their interests and hobbies – whatever helps build that rapport and trust.
Our service is commissioned by schools and local authorities, so there’s no cost to you as a parent. Most importantly, everything we do is designed to support your child’s emotional wellbeing and help them feel seen, valued and understood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child isn’t ready to engage in classes yet?
That’s completely okay. Some children aren’t yet at the stage where they feel able to join live lessons, and we fully understand that.
They might begin by watching small parts of recorded classes, or by chatting with their Learning Mentor on the dashboard. Sometimes those first conversations are just about hobbies or things they enjoy – whatever feels easiest to start with.
My own daughter, Evie, has been learning this way for years and still prefers watching recordings instead of joining live sessions, and that’s completely fine. Every child is different, and we’ll support yours in whatever way works best for them.
There’s no expectation at any time for your child to speak, be on camera, or join in. We move entirely at their pace.
How will we work together to support my child?
We know that you’re the expert on your child. Your insight matters, and we’ll work alongside you every step of the way,
Your child’s Learning Mentor will stay in regular contact with you, sharing updates on how things are going.
We also use a secure shared support log, where we keep notes, messages, and progress updates. You can check in at any time, so you always feel informed and involved.
Where a school or local authority has commissioned the support, they’ll also receive regular updates. Together, we’ll work towards the best outcome for your child – whether that’s a gradual return to school or preparing for their next educational placement, depending on what’s right for them.
What age groups do you support?
We support children and young people aged 4 to 16. The EBSA Support Service is most commonly accessed by children in Key Stage 2 and above, though we can support younger children where appropriate.
What types of classes do you offer?
We have over 100 classes to choose from, ranging from early years through to GCSE level. Ages are just a guideline – children can join whichever classes suit their ability and confidence levels.
Our classes include core subjects like English, maths and science, as well as ones such as creative writing, art, forensics, veterinary studies and criminology. We also run interest-based sessions like Pokémon club, Harry Potter fan club and a Taylor Swift fan club.
All of our tutors are either qualified teachers or professionals in their field (for example we have a qualified vet, doctor, astronomer and archeologist taking classes).
Do we need a diagnosis or EHCP to access the service?
No, not at all. You don’t need a diagnosis or an EHCP. We’re here to support any child whose anxiety is getting in the way of school,
What is the next step?
The first thing to do is head to the parent page and watch the short videos. These explain how the service works, what to expect, and how your child can get involved.
If it looks like it might be a good fit, you can book a call with us to ask any questions and talk things through. From there, we’ll offer your child a free trial so they can try out a few sessions with no pressure.
There’s no expectation for them to complete full lessons – just logging in, watching part of a recording, or joining for a few minutes is enough to give us a feel for whether it could work.
If the trial goes well and it seems like the support might be right for your child, we’ll then arrange a meeting with Laura, our SENCO, to explore next steps. After that, we’ll ask for your child’s school details so we can get in touch with them directly.
The EBSA Support Service is designed for children who aren’t currently able to attend school because of anxiety or burnout.
Although EBSA (Emotionally Based School Avoidance) is the most recognised term, the word “avoidance” doesn’t really reflect what’s going on. It implies a choice – but for many children, there is no choice. Sometimes, they simply can’t go in.
Some of the children we support are on reduced timetables, others haven’t been to school in months. Whatever the situation, we meet each child where they are and help them take small steps forward, in a way that works for them.