Understanding EBSA and Using Blended Learning Effectively | Leonie Maclay and Caroline McAteer

They share their own experiences of Emotionally Based School Avoidance / Non-Attendance (EBSA / EBSNA) with their own children, and how blended learning, especially the effective use of technology, can be used to address not only an individual’s strengths but also to meet their needs. They explain what is meant by ‘blended learning’ and talk about the benefits that it offers, as well as the potential challenges it poses.

Leonie Maclay and Caroline McAteer are co-founders of Zingera, a community interest company, which blends real world and virtual learning to unlock potential. Leonie developed an interest in technology-enhanced learning after her son left primary school in 2016 when he was 9 years old. His blended learning journey was transformative, and he is now thriving at a mainstream sixth form. Leonie studied Technology-Enhanced Learning with the Open University as part of her own blended learning journey and career change from architecture to technology-enhanced education.

Caroline has worked in both mental health and special educational needs settings with all age ranges. Her educational experience includes work in a primary school resource base for autistic children, and 1:1 support for a child with complex needs. As the parent of triplets and an older son, she has had extensive experience of the difficulty of accessing support for neurodivergent children. She has a keen interest in psychology.

You can find out more about Zingera on their website and find Leonie on LinkedIn.

• Consider different ways to use technology to personalise learning for children and young people who learn differently.
• Help children and young people to find creative ways to use technology and curate digital portfolios, enabling them to strengthen their interests.
• Experiment with mobile technologies, such as compass navigation and bird identifier apps, to enhance outdoor learning opportunities.