Making Sense of School Refusal – Supporting students who are struggling to attend school

This presentation explore the complex issue of school refusal, offering insight into the emotional and psychological factors that can prevent students from attending school. Educators will learn to recognise the signs of school refusal, differentiate it from other factors, find the right external support systems, implement school-wide supportive, trauma-informed strategies that foster student wellbeing, engagement, and re-entry into the school environment.

Emily Ballenden is a specialised teacher, education consultant, private SEN tutor and the founder of Additional Education Services. Emily holds a Bachelor of Education P-12, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Educational Learning and Leadership and a Masters degree in Special Education.

Emily has taught in the early childhood, primary and secondary school sectors for 15 years. She is a specialist educator based in schools and online, working with students from K-12, assisting teachers and parents alike to achieve desirable outcomes for students with Specific Learning Difficulties (SLDs).

Emily runs interactive seminars with attendee participation through discussions, questions and workshops.

The best P.D. I have attended in living memory!” I loved every minute of this engaging, interesting and informative PD. And I have been teaching for 40+ years!

Just a big Thank you for giving us the opportunity to attend the Critical Agenda Workshop yesterday.  David presented a great program, lots of handy strategies and he was very engaging and supportive. Highly recommended.  I was very happy we did not have to do any Role play’s.

Keep up the fantastic PD opportunities! Very  professional and well-researched workshops and conferences.

I love the fantastic variety of workshops and conferences on offer. Always look forward to Critical Agendas PD’s.

Passionate &  Authentic Speakers – Meaningful Strategies

Inspirational Speakers –  the knowledge gained will be so beneficial in my classrooms

Loved the honesty in the sharing of information and strategies

“It is the first P.L. in a long long time that I haven’t been checking in with my watch.”

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