Struggling to Go to School or Given up Trying?

School is a major part of our lives and like most things in life, it brings with it good, bad, ups and downs and lots in between. If you’re struggling to go to school or have given up on trying, this blog is for you!
Why do I need to go to school?
Schools aim to give you a good education, helping you get the knowledge and skills you need to navigate the world as you grow and move towards young adulthood. Schools are also a place where you make friends, try out different activities and, hopefully, have fun. But for some children and young people, being in school isn’t always fun. Going in every day, all year round can be challenging!
In Wales, all children and young people between the ages of 5 and 16 are legally required to go to school, until the end of Year 11. This is called compulsory education. It means that attending school is not just a good idea, it’s the law.
There are different ways to get an education. Most of us go to school, but some families choose to homeschool their children. That means they learn at home instead of in a classroom.
The local council has to make sure everyone is getting the education they need. That’s why they keep track of how often we go to school. If you miss school a lot, the council might get involved. They might contact the Education Welfare Service (EWS) to help figure out why you’re missing school. The EWS helps make sure children and young people get the education they need. Sometimes, if you miss school too often, your parents might have to pay a fine.
Why school can be hard
Sometimes, you might find it hard to keep up with your classmates, you might not understand certain subjects, or you might feel overwhelmed by all the homework. Struggling with schoolwork can make you feel frustrated and like you’re not good enough. This can make you feel less confident and make it harder to enjoy learning.
Some subjects might be boring, or you might not like a particular teacher. This can make it difficult to pay attention in class and make learning feel like a chore. If you’re not engaged in your lessons, it’s difficult to listen, pay attention, and remember the information.
If you’re being bullied at school, it can make you feel sad and scared. By not feeling safe, you’re not able to focus on your lessons or homework. Bullying can have a huge impact on your mental and emotional wellbeing, making it difficult to concentrate and thrive academically.
Maybe you feel left out of your friend group, you’re having trouble making friends, or you’re going through some friendship problems. These things can make school feel lonely and isolating. When you’re not feeling connected to your peers, it can be harder to enjoy the school environment and participate fully in class.
Family issues can create stress and worry, which means you might not be able to focus properly in school. If things are tough at home, like if your parents are going through a difficult time, you might find it hard to be at school.
What to do if you’re struggling to go to school
It’s important to remember that you’re not alone if you’re feeling stressed or unhappy at school. Many other young people experience similar challenges. Staying away from school might feel like the best thing for you at the moment, but it usually only delays getting to the root of the problem and making things better.
To make school more enjoyable and make it more likely for you to go, you could:
- Try to build strong friendships both inside and outside of school
- Find clubs or activities that you enjoy and where you feel like you belong
- Embrace the opportunity to learn new things and expand your knowledge
- Get involved in school events, sports, and other activities that you enjoy
Talking to someone you trust can make a big difference. You could speak to a trusted adult at school, such as a teacher, head of year, or the school nurse. They can offer support, listen to your concerns, and help you find solutions to the problems you’re facing. They can also provide guidance and resources to help you succeed in school.
You can also reach out to Meic. Meic is a confidential helpline for young people. We offer free information, advice and advocacy for anything that’s bothering you, including school-related problems. Meic can also contact the school on your behalf if needed to help you get the support you need.
Remember, school is a journey. There will be ups and downs along the way. But with the right support, you can make the most of your school experience.
