Outwood Academy Freeston recognised for commitment to student wellbeing

Outwood Academy Freeston has been recognised as an 'EBSA Friendly School', an achievement that highlights its commitment to supporting students who experience Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). This recognition acknowledges the school's dedication to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where all students can thrive.

EBSA is a complex issue where a child or young person struggles to attend school due to significant emotional factors, such as anxiety, stress, and fear. Unlike truancy, EBSA is not a conscious choice to skip school but rather an inability to attend due to overwhelming emotional distress. The 'EBSA Friendly School' designation acknowledges that the Normanton-based academy has implemented a whole-school approach to address and prevent these issues, with over 75 per cent of staff completing the Level 1 EBSA Horizons training programme, developed by EdPsychEd in partnership with Wakefield Council.

Lisa Allott, principal at Outwood Academy Freeston, said:

“As an academy, we are committed to evidence-based practice and inclusive education. The EBSA Horizons programme has allowed us to dedicate professional development and investment into this area, and in addressing attendance issues to support vulnerable young people. We are very proud to have gained this recognition and look forward to using and developing this knowledge moving forward with our young people and community.”