Supporting Attendance & EBSA: A Relational, Trauma Informed and Belonging Focussed Approach for Schools

Attendance is central to children’s learning, wellbeing and long‑term outcomes. However, many pupils are experiencing heightened anxiety, sensory distress or emotional overwhelm that make daily attendance increasingly difficult. Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) describes this pattern of anxiety‑driven non‑attendance — a growing need across both mainstream and specialist settings.

This workshop explores why attendance matters, what EBSA is, and how schools can respond with compassion, structure and relational consistency. Dr. Leanne Johnson and Ed Hall will share the development of OFG’s Supporting Attendance & EBSA Strategy, grounded in Trauma‑Informed Practice, early identification and whole‑system culture change.

Delegates will gain an overview of:

• the emotional and relational drivers behind EBSA
• the importance of predictable, psychologically safe school environments
• how OFG developed and embedded its Supporting Attendance & EBSA Strategy – key tools, processes and early learning from this
• practical approaches schools can adopt immediately
• the importance of a strong curriculum and high-quality first teaching in building confidence, reducing anxiety, and promoting wellbeing through success and progress