S3E17 The Silent Crisis: Emotionally-based School Avoidance, with Kate Dommett

As summer ends, the excitement of back-to-school season isn't shared by all. In England, an estimated 400,000 children are not in school, a 50% increase from 2023. Disadvantaged pupils and those with mental health issues, highlighted in the NHS England report, face significant challenges. Emotionally-based school avoidance is becoming more common due to rising anxiety levels among young people.

Many children, especially those with neurodiversity or other special needs, find traditional school systems inadequate. Home education is on the rise, often not by choice but due to unmet needs in formal schooling settings.

Melanie Cave hosts Kate Dommett from Transforming Lives for Good to explore how the church community can support these families. With extensive experience in children's coaching and a passion for emotional well-being, Kate discusses the importance of trauma-informed care and community involvement in addressing this critical issue.   They explore the challenges faced by children in the current education landscape, particularly those struggling with mental health and school attendance. The discussion emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive church communities, building relationships with families, and implementing practical strategies to engage with those in need. They highlight the significance of intergenerational connections and the transformative power of coaching and support, while also addressing the need for trauma-informed practices within church settings. The conversation concludes with a call to action for church leaders to equip themselves for effective support and to foster a culture of care and community engagement.   Takeaways

• Up to 400,000 children in England are estimated not to be in school.
• Certain groups are more likely to exit the school system completely.
• Nearly half of 14-year-olds say they don't like school.
• The church can play a vital role in supporting families.
• Many children are not thriving in traditional school settings.
• Mental health issues are a significant factor in school refusal.
• Churches need to create inclusive environments for all children.
• Building relationships with families is crucial for support.
• Practical strategies can help churches engage with struggling families.
• Intergenerational connections can enrich community support.

Sound Bites

• "Up to 400,000 children are not in school."
• "Building relationships is crucial for support."
• "Creating safe spaces for children is essential."

Chapters 00:00 Supporting Families in Education Challenges 08:23 The Impact of COVID on School Attendance 12:58 Churches as Supportive Communities 18:04 Building Relationships Over Programs 23:05 Creating Intergenerational Spaces 28:10 The Beauty of Community and Support 28:48 Transforming Lives for Good: TLG's Mission 32:29 Coaching and Support for Struggling Families 35:22 Creating Safe Spaces: The Make Lunch Initiative 37:04 Emotional Wellbeing and Trauma-Informed Care 39:58 Building Relationships: The Role of the Church 45:51 The Impact of Consistent Adults in Children's Lives 49:20 Prayer and Reflection for Young People 51:24 Supporting Education in the Community 52:20 Resources for Education Sunday  

Show notes

Read Kate's article on the Roots for Churches website

Transforming lives for good: www.tlg.org.uk

Roots' Resources for Education Sunday 

www.rootsforchurches.com