School Can’t: Understanding, Supporting and Advocating for Children Who Cannot Attend School

What Will You Learn?

• Explain clearly what School Can't is and why it is categorically different from truancy or school refusal - using language that holds up in meetings
• Identify the specific neurological, sensory, and environmental triggers that push a child beyond their capacity to attend
• Recognise the signs of School Can't in a child before full non-attendance sets in
• Map the full impact of School Can't on the child, parents, siblings, and the family system as a whole
• Navigate Australian education legislation and know exactly what schools are legally required to provide for students who cannot attend
• Build a documented advocacy strategy including written requests, meeting scripts, and escalation pathways
• Identify and request reasonable adjustments and accommodations that reduce demand and make attendance possible
• Explore flexible and alternative education options available in Australia and assess which might suit your child