Wellbeing Network Series: Being at School Starts With Feeling Safe

Description

Schools are increasingly seeking to understand how they can better support students experiencing school refusal more accurately described as school can’t, where students are unable to attend or engage in school due to underlying needs. As schools look for effective, compassionate and evidence-based ways to respond, this professional learning session, led by Linda Daniel, will support educators to better understand and address this growing challenge.

Drawing on over 20 years of experience across Independent and Catholic schools, Linda will explore the key factors contributing to school can’t, share current facts around disengaged students at risk of exclusion, suspension and absenteeism, and unpack what effective, comprehensive learning and risk management plans look like in practice.

Participants will gain clarity on how trauma-informed, culturally responsive and evidence-based approaches, such as Collaborative Problem Solving and whole-school behaviour frameworks can support sustainable engagement. The session includes a guided workshop component where participants will work collaboratively with colleagues from other schools to reflect on their own school context, share challenges, and learn from one another.

With Linda’s expert facilitation, attendees will be supported to reflect on their own school context and consider practical next steps based on the insights, discussions and examples shared during the session.

This session is ideal for school leaders, wellbeing teams and educators seeking practical solutions to support complex learners and create safe, inclusive and productive learning environments.