Other highly recommended resources or learning for young people
Communication Ladder Gauge current communication level and adjust approach (e.g. open questions, yes/no, selecting images) This graded questioning diagram is great for getting to know how comfortable a young person is with different levels of communication. You can try moving down the sequence over time as they get more comfortable, but make sure to go […]
Creative/indirect approaches for young people
Natural conversation moments
Young Person’s Neuroprofiling Tool
The Neuroprofiling tool is an online tool created by neurodivergent young people and adults for young people (aged 10+) who are exploring neurodivergence. The tool is a set of statements about a range of internal experiences. Young people can fill it out by selecting statements that fit with their experiences and are important to them. […]
The Backpack Tool
‘The Backpack’ is a strengths-based reflective tool designed to support conversations with children and young people who may be finding school attendance, relationships, or life in general a bit difficult. Inspired by the idea that we all carry different things with us (some helpful, some heavy), this visual resource invites young people to explore their […]
Sensory Audit Tool
Some young people may find the school environment overwhelming due to sensory differences and sensitivities, which can increase anxiety. This tool is designed to help school staff identify and reduce common sensory triggers across the school setting. The audit highlights key sensory areas to review, such as sound, light, smell, and layout, in a variety […]
Anxiety Mapping Tool
This tool is designed to help young people communicate how they feel throughout the school day, especially in situations that may cause anxiety. It can be used by school staff alongside young people to identify patterns, triggers, and areas of concern, helping to shape more effective support strategies.
Self Determination Theory at School Tool
When supporting a young person who is experiencing barriers to attendance/ accessing education, it is important to consider Self-Determination Theory so that they are at their best. This list of statements can be used to identify whether a young person’s three psychological needs are being met (autonomy, competence, relatedness). Any gaps or identified needs can […]
Barriers to Education Card Sort Tool
This card sort tool is designed to help young people explore and reflect on different aspects of school life. It covers topics like getting to school, the school environment, social situations, and more. Everyone’s experience at school is different, and this tool helps young people to identify the areas that feel comfortable and those that […]
Barriers to Education School Checklist
This questionnaire is designed to identify what makes school tricky, to help prioritise and make an action plan around what might help. This checklist is long as it aims to cover a wide range of possible factors – so it might be helpful to work with the young person to decide on which sections to […]