Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
It is not unusual, for us as adults, to feel unmotivated and not want to go to work. Young people in our care may also feel like this at times and this is perfectly normal. Sometimes though, the idea of going to school can cause severe distress for a young person and can result in a reluctance to go to school and an increase in nonattendance.
High levels of distress and a reluctance to go to school is known as school refusal.The signs of school refusal may include distress before school, health complaints, skipping class, leaving school or repeated absenteeism. In more extreme cases the thought of attending school may result in vomiting, refusing to eat, shaking or panic attacks. Being a parent or carer of a teenager who refuses to attend school can be incredibly challenging, putting strain on your relationship with them and impact heavily on home life.
It is important to inform the College at the first sign that your child may be experiencing any degree of school refusal or avoidance. It can, in some situations, be more manageable in its early stages. At SJPC everything we do is based around fostering a positive working relationship between students, staff and parents. In the area of pastoral care these relationships are paramount. Our Leaders and Assistant Leaders of Wellbeing, the Leader of Student Engagement, The College Counsellors, the Wellbeing Officer, Homeroom teachers, members of Student Services and the College Executive are all willing to communicate with you to help with your child. In the past 18 months the College has developed a designated Wellbeing Room which is an ideal space for any student who is struggling with the concept of attendance. This area along with sound advice is a starting point from which we can try to overcome this very real concern.
While the attached resource is primarily aimed at teachers, parents may find it helpful with any concerns they may be having.
SCHOOL REFUSAL: Every School Day Counts | NSW Department of Education
The College will be supporting Neurodiversity Celebration Week from Monday 17 March. In a school of 1080 students it is important to recognise and support the diversity of diagnosis in our College. I thank our Student Services who have put together a program for the week. Please click here for information which may be of interest to all.
Until next time:
