"School can’t" is more than simply not wanting to go to school. For some Autistic students, the demands and stresses associated with school can become so overwhelming that attending feels difficult or even impossible.
In this episode of a different brilliant®, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Tahlia Morgan, Head of Wellbeing at Aspect Vern Barnett School, and Tiffany Westphal, Director of School Can’t Australia, to explore what "school can’t" is and how parents, carers and educators can better support Autistic students experiencing school-related distress.
Together, they unpack why the language we use matters, including the move away from terms such as “school refusal” that can suggest a student is making a deliberate choice not to attend. The conversation explores some of the sensory, social, cognitive and physiological stressors that can contribute to school can’t, as well as early signs of distress including masking, changes in behaviour, physical symptoms and difficulty transitioning into school.
Whether you’re a parent or carer, educator, allied health professional or someone supporting an Autistic young person, this episode offers practical insights into recognising school can’t and working together to create learning environments where students can feel safe, supported and understood.
Please note: This episode discusses school distress and difficult school experiences that some listeners may find upsetting. If you experience distress, please seek support through Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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Further Resources:
Aspect information sheet: School Can't https://www.aspect.org.au/uploads/documents/Information-Sheets/School_Refusal_information_sheet_March_2025.pdf
School Can’t Australia – Understanding School Can’t and Parent / Carer Resource: https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/resources-1
School Can’t Australia – Parent Guide to School Attendance Difficulties: https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/parentresources/
Amaze – School can’t resources for parents/carers and teachers: https://www.amaze.org.au/support/resources/school-cant-resources-for-parents-carers-and-teachers/
Amaze – My School Experiences toolkit: https://www.amaze.org.au/2026/02/my-school-experiences-toolkit/
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Aspect Distance Education: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/going-to-school/aspect-distance-education
Lifeline Australia – Crisis support: https://www.lifeline.org.au/?_ga=2.55905443.926984944.1788849754-959480927.1788849753&_gac=1.155258569.1788849754.CjwKCAjwwfnUBhAtEiwAfQpAYt9OEdmMgUgiiVNqEhj_C8dV16QZscXvJRnwbmkUrHeIFccEHuQikBoCrZUQAvD_BwE
