The School Can't Experience – Details, episodes & analysis
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The School Can't Experience
School Can't Australia
Frequency: 1 episode/7d. Total Eps: 44
For parents and caregivers of young people who struggle to attend school, and related education and health professionals. We share experiences and insights into what is going on for our young people and how we can offer support.
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See allScore global : 62%
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2025 Year End Update and Reflection
Season 1
mardi 23 décembre 2025 • Duration 03:24
You're invited to attend the virtual launch of School Can't Australia's new ebook.
Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/resource-launch-understanding-school-can-t-a-guide-for-parents-and-carers
Please help us plan content for next years episodes - send your feedback and ideas to schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com or send us a text.
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#43 - Wendy's Lived Experience
Season 1 · Episode 43
lundi 8 décembre 2025 • Duration 35:09
Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast hosted by Leisa Reichelt. In this episode, Wendy, a high school teacher and foster parent, shares her story of caring for her foster son Jax, who has struggled with school attendance for several years.
Wendy shares the various challenges they have faced with the education system, their experiences with foster care, and their journey towards finding an appropriate learning environment for Jax where he is now truly seen, understood and supported.
The episode also highlights the importance of understanding neurodiversity and advocating for children with special needs.
Content warning: the episode includes a mention of suicide. Please listen with care and reach out for support if you need it.
00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:27 Introducing Wendy and Her Story
01:16 Wendy's Background and Family Dynamics
04:45 Challenges in the Education System
08:55 Navigating the Foster Care System
16:12 Breakthroughs and Progress
23:21 Finding the Right School
29:47 Reflections and Future Hopes
33:52 Closing Remarks and Resources
People & resources mentioned in this episode:
- NSW In-Home Care - https://nswihc.org.au/in-home-care/
- Your Child is Not Broken: Parent Your Neurodivergent Child Without Losing Your Marbles, by Heidi Mavir - https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/9781035030576/
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#34 - NeuroWild’s Em Hammond on the problem with ‘Just Have a Go’
Season 1 · Episode 34
lundi 6 octobre 2025 • Duration 41:57
Em Hammond of Neurowild joins us for this special episode. Em, a speech therapist and illustrator, emphasizes the importance of understanding and supporting neurodivergent children, particularly in educational settings.
We talk through Em’s resource called ‘Reasons Why Autistic Kids May Not Be OK With ‘Having a Go’ and why this request can be ableist, dismissive of our kids experience and ultimately traumatising. Em highlights the importance of validating children's experiences and asking them about the best ways we can offer them support that actually helps..
00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:26 Introducing Em Hammond: NeuroWild
03:43 Supporting Neurodivergent Kids in Education
05:37 Challenges with Educators and Neurodiversity
07:14 The Importance of Context and Communication
09:59 The 'Have a Go' Dilemma
19:31 Understanding Neurodivergent Kids' Needs
21:26 The Pressure of Being Perceived
22:42 The Fear of Failure and Its Impact
23:37 Logical and Analytical Thinking in Kids
26:47 Gestalt Language Processing in Neurodivergent Kids
35:27 Understanding Ableism
39:50 Resources and Support for Parents
Recommended Resources
- Reasons Why Autistic Kids May Not be OK with Having a Go: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1SBA4mzbNH/
- Neurowild on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/NeuroWild-100087870753308
- Neurowild on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurowild_/?hl=en
- TeachersPayTeachers Resources: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/emily-hammond-neurowild
- Save Victorian Parent Helpline Petition: https://www.megaphone.org.au/petitions/save-parentline
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#33 - Listener Favourite - Monique Mitchelson
Season 1 · Episode 33
lundi 29 septembre 2025 • Duration 41:44
Happy school holidays (in Australia) to all who celebrate. As a holiday special we are revisiting this popular episode, an interview with clinical psychologist Monique Mitchelson.
We explore the often misunderstood concept of resilience, especially for our neurodivergent young people.
Monique, who is autistic and ADHD herself, shares her journey and highlights the challenges and necessary shifts in education systems to support neurodivergent children and young people. Together, they discuss the limitations of traditional exposure therapy, the impact of sensory overload, and the importance of adopting neurodiversity-affirming practices in schools.
00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:27 Introducing Monique Mitchelson
02:36 Understanding Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy
05:30 Challenges of Mainstream Schooling for Neurodivergent Kids
07:21 Defining and Misunderstanding Resilience
11:38 Exposure Therapy and Its Limitations
18:41 The Importance of a Supportive Environment
25:41 Advocating for Neurodivergent Children
30:58 Resources and Final Thoughts
Recommended Resources
- The Autism CRC updated guidelines Supporting Autistic Children Guideline | Autism CRC - https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/supporting-children
- National Autism Strategy | Department of Social Services - https://www.dss.gov.au/national-autism-strategy
- Dr. Ross Greene - https://drrossgreene.com/
- Polyvagal Theory — Rhythm of Regulation Deb Dana - https://www.rhythmofregulation.com/polyvagal-theory
- Polyvagal Exercises for Safety and Connection: 50 Client-Centered Practices (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology): 9780393713855: Medicine & Health Science Books @ Amazon.com by Deb Dana - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0393713857?tag=&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1
- The Sensory Pyramid of Learning - Foundation for Development - DEVELOP LEARN GROW - https://developlearngrow.com/the-pyramid-of-learning/
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#32 - How GPs can support School Can't families with Dr Kara Johns
Season 1 · Episode 32
lundi 22 septembre 2025 • Duration 43:13
In this episode host Leisa Reichelt is joined by Dr Kara Johns to discuss the crucial role that General Practitioners (GPs) can play in supporting families struggling with School Can’t.
Dr. Johns, a GP from South Australia, shares her personal and professional insights on handling School Can't situations. They explore the importance of building strong GP-family relationships, navigating the Australian health system, and the Medicare safety net.
The episode also touches on the impact of emotional health on children's school attendance and provides practical advice for parents dealing with similar challenges.
00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:27 Introducing Dr. Kara Johns
01:42 Kara's Personal Experience with School Can't
07:16 Understanding the Role of a GP
11:22 Building a Productive Partnership with Your GP
13:44 Navigating Appointment Lengths and Expectations
18:45 Supporting Families with School Can't
20:42 The Importance of Primary Attachment in Child Development
21:41 Challenges in the School System and Parental Advocacy
23:48 The Role of GPs in Supporting Families
30:27 Navigating the Australian Health System
39:11 Resources and Support for Families
42:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Recommended Resources
- Possums (Neuroprotective Developmental Care) by Dr Pamela Douglas - https://possumsndc.com/
- Medicare Safety Net - https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare-safety-nets
- Medicare Mental Health Plan - https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/mental-health-care-and-medicare
- Pop Culture Parenting podcast - https://www.popcultureparenting.com/
- Developing Minds psychologists - https://developingminds.net.au/
- Reflect Health (ADHD Resources) -
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#31 - Insights from the Australian Network for School Attendance Conference
Season 1 · Episode 31
lundi 15 septembre 2025 • Duration 42:06
In this episode of the School Can't Experience Podcast, host Leisa Reichelt discusses the recent Australian Network for School Attendance Conference with Tiffany Westphal and Louise Rogers from School Can't Australia.
They share valuable insights and highlights from the event, discussing various topics such as the impact of stressors on student attendance, the importance of lived experience in shaping policies, and the complexities surrounding school attendance difficulties.
They explore the terminology used to describe school attendance issues, how schools can use imputed diagnosis to access NCCD funding, and gaps in the perspectives of students, educators, and parents.
Recommended Resources
- Conference program: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/australian-network-for-school-attendance-ansa-conference-registration-1261023377869
- Student Stress Investigation cards: https://www.studentstressinvestigation.com.au/
- Save Victorian Parent Helpline Petition: https://www.megaphone.org.au/petitions/save-parentline
- NCCD - Imputing Disability: https://www.nccd.edu.au/tools/imputing-disability-nccd
- NCCD Resources for parents and guardians - https://www.nccd.edu.au/resources-and-tools/roles/parents-guardians-and-carers-14
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#30 - Simone & Yani's Lived Experience
Season 1 · Episode 30
lundi 8 septembre 2025 • Duration 43:09
In our first parent/young person duet episode, Simone and her teenager Yani share their journey through years of school struggles, home education, and eventually finding a path forward that works. Together, they talk openly about the challenges of separation anxiety, dyslexia, School Can’t, and the toll it takes on both parent and child.
What shines through is their honesty, resilience, and the strength of their relationship as they navigate tough choices and moments of relief - from difficult mornings at the school gate to the freedom of “Beach Day.” Yani reflects on what it’s like to be a young person who simply couldn’t do school in the usual way, while Simone offers the perspective of a parent trying to balance care, work, and self-doubt.
This conversation will resonate with parents facing similar challenges, and offer valuable insight for educators and professionals seeking to better understand and support families living with School Can’t
00:00 Introduction to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:27 Meet Yani and Simone
02:08 Early School Experiences: Daycare and Kinder
06:05 Struggles with Mainstream Primary School
24:04 Transition to High School and Lockdown Challenges
27:06 Embracing Home Education
34:13 Finding a New Path: TAFE and Future Plans
39:57 Reflections and Closing Thoughts
Recommended Resources
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#29 - Symone Wheatley-Hey's Lived Experience
Season 1 · Episode 29
lundi 1 septembre 2025 • Duration 38:08
In this episode of the School Can't Experience Podcast, host Leisa Reichelt speaks with Symone Wheatley-Hey, an advocate for neurodivergent voices in education.
Symone shares her personal journey of navigating 'School Can't' as a sole parent to two neurodivergent children. The discussion covers Symone's experiences with home education, the impact of PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) on schooling, and the transformation her family underwent to overcome educational challenges.
Symone also discusses the positive changes in her children's school and their re-integration into the education system.
00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:27 Introducing Symone Wheatley-Hey
02:27 Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
07:58 Freddie's Story: Early Signs and Struggles
11:29 The Challenges of Homeschooling
25:05 Returning to School: A New Beginning
29:24 The Four Corners Experience
33:04 Final Thoughts and Resources
Recommended Resources
- Twinkl (educational resources) - https://www.twinkl.com.au/
- Jonelle Fraser, Aurora Education - https://jonellefraser.com/
- Four Corners Episode - The Kids who Can’t Go to School https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSdhuqj04vQ
- Dr Mona Delahooke -
https://monadelahooke.com - Dr Ross Greene and Collaborative Proactive Solutions https://livesinthebalance.org
- Dr Alfie Kohn. (Rewards & Motivation) https://www.alfiekohn.org
- Maggie Dent, especially her book “help me help my teen” https://www.maggiedent.com
- Dr Natalie Thompson is at Charles Sturt University
https://study.csu.edu.au/find-courses/short-courses/microcredential-courses/intro-disability-affirming-classrooms - Love after love by Derek Walcott
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#28 - Dr Naomi Fisher on Parental Burnout
Season 1 · Episode 28
lundi 25 août 2025 • Duration 43:46
Returning guest Dr. Naomi Fisher joins host Leisa Reichelt and School Can’t Australia’s Tiffany Westphal and returning guest Dr. Naomi Fisher to deep dive into the pressing issue of parental burnout.
Dr. Fisher, Clinical Psychologist and expert in supporting parents with burned out School Can’t kids, provides valuable insights into recognizing, understanding, and combating burnout among parents and carers.
You’ll get practical tips for self-care that are achievable even for parents who have little or no time to themselves. We also discuss the impact of systemic pressures and strategies for managing chronic stress.
Whether you’re a burned out parent or supporting someone who is in or near burnout, this episode offers a way to understand what is going on and what can be done to help make the journey a little more sustainable.
00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:26 Introducing Dr. Naomi Fisher and Parental Burnout
01:33 Understanding Burnout: Signs and Symptoms
03:49 The Impact of School on Parental Burnout
04:47 Challenges of Home Education
06:35 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Parenting
09:58 Social Isolation and Judgment
14:46 Inner Critic and Self-Compassion
19:12 Rewriting Your Parenting Narrative
22:30 Naming Your Inner Voice
22:55 Creating Distance from Negative Thoughts
23:06 Self-Compassion and Friend Analogy
23:37 Thanking Your Inner Voice
23:51 Managing Threat Responses
25:28 Controlling Social Media Inputs
27:47 Systemic Impacts on Parental Burnout
30:11 Questioning the Education System
34:26 Sustainable Parenting Strategies
34:57 The Importance of Parental Self-Care
36:37 Dealing with Shame and Household Expectations
39:51 Investing in Mental Health
41:13 Resources for Burnt Out Parents
42:28 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Recommended Resources
- Understanding Burnout in our Children (Naomi’s previous episode on the pod) - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2447546/episodes/16923733
- Naomi’s website (books, courses, webinars) - https://naomifisher.co.uk/
- Think Again: Naomi’s substack/newsletter -
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
#27 - Diana's Lived Experience
Season 1 · Episode 27
lundi 18 août 2025 • Duration 41:34
In this episode, you’ll meet Diana, a mother of two young people with School Can’t experiences. Diana joins host Leisa Reichelt to candidly share her experiences supporting her son James through his struggles with mainstream schooling.
From early signs like separation anxiety and hating birthday parties and swimming lessons, to the challenges of advocating for access to Distance Education including supports for undertaking the Higher School Certificate (HSC).
Diana’s story includes topics like deschooling, misdiagnosis, and the importance of tailored support.
Content warning: This episode briefly mentions a suicide threat. Please take care when listening.
00:00 Introduction to the School Can't Experience Podcast
00:29 Meet Diana: A School Can't Mum
02:12 Early Signs and Challenges
08:03 The High School Struggle
17:29 Navigating Distance Education
19:46 Coping Strategies and Support
24:59 James' Journey to University
37:31 Reflections and Advice
40:30 Closing Remarks and Resources
Recommended Resources
- Uniting Youth Enhanced Support Service (YESS): Northern Sydney - https://www.uniting.org/services/mental-health/facility/yess-youth-enhanced-support-service-yess-northern-sydney-northern-beaches
- Growing Yourself Up by Jennie Brown (Book) - https://www.amazon.com.au/Growing-Yourself-Up-bring-relationships/dp/1925335194
- Understanding Deschooling with Pavlina McMaster and Heidi Ryan (Podcast Episode) - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2447546/episodes/17100428
- School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
- Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved
If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you
You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.
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