The School Can't Experience

School Can't Australia
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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.

  1. #46 Individual Learning Plans that really work with Emma-Rose Parsons

    1D AGO

    #46 Individual Learning Plans that really work with Emma-Rose Parsons

    Psychologist Emma-Rose Parsons joins host, Leisa Reichelt to discuss how Individual Learning Plans (ILPs/IEPs) can become practical, neurodiversity-affirming tools rather than “tick-the-box” paperwork.  Emma-Rose explains ILPs should document reasonable adjustments, support equal access to curriculum and school life, and help schools meet obligations under relevant disability and equal opportunity legislation—ideally through true collaboration with parents and, where possible, students. They identify common red flags and Emma-Rose shares examples of better goals focused on access and regulation. The episode also covers school objections around “fairness” and staff capacity, noting the need for better whole-community understanding of equity and more teacher upskilling.  They discuss how allied health can help by providing brief, prioritised recommendations with clear rationale, and how implementation often breaks down in high school without clear responsibility for sharing plans across multiple teachers.  People & resources mentioned in this episode: Emma Rose’s website: https://emmarosepsychologist.com.au/Nuturing Sparkles Video Library” https://learn.nurturingsparkles.com.au/Neurowild octopus iceskates cartoon re: equal vs equality - https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02T5WZVb94KbcK5BzZannYZTNkRAnG39PWVqEVE9HS19PDY9LCJzErzE6KXzExV6Q5l&id=100087870753308Neurowild on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurowild_Lived Experience Educator: https://www.livedexperienceeducator.com/ Onwards and Upwards Psychology: https://www.onwardsandupwardspsychology.com.au/Yellow Ladybugs: https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/Send a text Support the show 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.

    45 min
  2. #45 - What I Wish I Knew Earlier - Lived Experience Panel

    FEB 9

    #45 - What I Wish I Knew Earlier - Lived Experience Panel

    This week we bring you a special live recording of the Lived Experience panel from the launch of the 'Understanding School Can’t' ebook. Featuring previous podcast guests Diana, Mark, Simone, and Yani, the discussion ranges draws from their personal journeys and explores the challenges they faced with School Can’t, and the wisdom they wish they had known earlier. The panel offers powerful reflections on the importance of community, dealing with isolation and stress, and practical advice on navigating educational systems. They also touch on the significance of self-care and finding hope during difficult times. Download the free ebook from the School Can’t Australia website (https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/minibook) and join us in this candid conversation about overcoming barriers and supporting young people through their unique educational challenges. 00:00 Welcome and introduction to the Lived Experience Panel 02:30 Meet the Panelists: Personal Journeys 09:15 Early Signs of School Can't 12:49 Bad Advice and Missteps 18:43 What Actually Helped: Breakthroughs and Support 24:05 Hope and Optimism in the Journey 27:18 The Importance of Self-Care 28:57 Final Thoughts and Resources People & resources mentioned in this episode: Download the ebook; Understanding School Can’t - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/minibookDiana’s Lived Experience Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2447546/episodes/17687736Mark’s Lived Experience Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2447546/episodes/17343389Simone & Yani’s Lived Experience Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2447546/episodes/17807153Naomi Fisher on Parental Burnout (and self compassion) episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2447546/episodes/17727352Send a text Support the show 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 min
  3. #44 - Understanding School Can't with Tiffany Westphal and Louise Rogers

    FEB 2

    #44 - Understanding School Can't with Tiffany Westphal and Louise Rogers

    In the first episode of the 2026 School Can't Experience Podcast, host Leisa Reichelt discusses the challenges 'School Can't,' with the Directors of School Can't Australia, Tiffany Westphal and Louise Rogers and discuss some of the content of the new ebook, Understanding School Can’t published by School Can’t Australia in January. Download a copy of the Understanding School Can’t ebook here: https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/minibook We explore the early and often missed signs of School Can't, harmful but well-meaning advice, and why it's essential for parents and carers to invest in their own mental well-being.  Our conversation explores stressors that impact children’s school attendance, building trust, self-regulation, and the importance of community support.  Tiffany and Louise emphasise compassion, curiosity, and support for both children and their caregivers.  00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast 01:57 Personal Summer Break Stories 03:08 Defining 'School Can't' 05:02 Distinguishing 'Can't' from 'Won't' 07:25 Early Signs and Patterns of School Can't 08:42 Parental Experiences and Insights 24:01 Common Stressors and Challenges 29:39 Effective Strategies and Support 32:29 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents 44:40 Final Thoughts and Resources People & resources mentioned in this episode: Download a copy of the Understanding School Can’t ebook here: https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/minibookDr Ross Greene, Lives in the Balance: https://livesinthebalance.org/Shankar Self Reg - https://self-reg.ca/Carers Gateway - https://www.carergateway.gov.au/Send us a text Support the show 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.

    48 min

  4. 12/23/2025 · BONUS

    2025 Year End Update and Reflection

    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. Send us a text Support the show 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.

    3 min
  5. #43 - Wendy's Lived Experience

    12/08/2025

    #43 - Wendy's Lived Experience

    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/Send us a text Support the show 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.

    35 min
  6. #42 - Tanya Valentin on School Can't Parental Grief and Transformation

    12/01/2025

    #42 - Tanya Valentin on School Can't Parental Grief and Transformation

    In this episode, host Leisa Reichelt is joined by Tanya Valentin, a neuro-affirming family coach from New Zealand.  Tanya shares her journey of discovering her neurodivergence and her family's experiences with school burnout and autism. They discuss the challenges, grief, and shame faced by parents, and the transformative power of finding new paths to education and parenting.  Tanya also talks about the resources and support available for families dealing with similar issues. Tune in to hear insights on breaking societal norms and fostering genuine connections with your children. 00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast 00:28 Meet Tanya Valentin: A Journey Through Burnout and Neurodivergence 02:53 Understanding Burnout: A Family's Struggle and Discovery 05:29 Navigating Parenting Challenges and Professional Advice 12:53 The Emotional Toll: Grief, Shame, and Transformation 41:34 Finding Support and Resources for Parents 45:57 Closing Thoughts and Resources Tanya’s Resources Tanya has a holiday support menu for parents, centred on the grief and emotional weight that can surface at this time of year.  The supports range from free to paid and are designed to meet parents across different needs and capacity levels. You can find that here: https://tanyavalentin.co/holiday-support-menu/ And here is the link for parents who may wish to join From Burnout to Balance: https://tanyavalentin.co/parent-community/ People & resources mentioned in this episode: Dr Anna Neff: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/Dr Francis Weller: https://www.francisweller.net/Dr Emmi Pickler: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmi_PiklerKristi Forbes: https://www.kristyforbes.com.au/Dr Naomi Fisher:https://naomifisher.co.uk/Send us a text Support the show 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.

    47 min
  7. #41 - ICYMI - Home Education: Busting Myths and Misunderstandings with Pavlina McMaster

    11/24/2025

    #41 - ICYMI - Home Education: Busting Myths and Misunderstandings with Pavlina McMaster

    In this episode of the School Can't Experience Podcast, host Leisa Reichelt is joined by Pavlina McMaster, Coordinator at the Home Education Network to shed light on some common myths about Home Education, including:  Myth #1:Home Education is a last resortMyth #2: I have to work so don’t have time to Home EducateMyth #3: I’m not smart/educated enough to teach my kidsMyth #4: Home Education restricts our kids future opportunitiesMyth #5: Home Education kids miss out on social opportunities.Useful resources: Home Education Network (Australia) - https://home-ed.vic.edu.au/Victoria Home Schoolers and Unschoolers Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victorianhomeschoolersandunschoolersHome Education NSW - https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeeducationnswHome Education QLD Inc. - https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeeducationqldincHome Education Tasmania - https://www.facebook.com/groups/876634649129826Home Education WA (HEWA) - https://www.facebook.com/hewapageSouth Australian Home Educators - https://www.facebook.com/groups/southaustralianhomeeducatorsHome Educators Northern Terrritory Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1226268530873997Home Education Canberra Facebook Group (ACT) - https://www.facebook.com/groups/165766030185476Also search for Home Education Facebook groups in your city or local area. There are many! Send us a text Support the show 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 min
  8. #40 - Kate Broderick on relationship based teaching

    11/17/2025

    #40 - Kate Broderick on relationship based teaching

    In this episode of the School Can't Experience Podcast, host Leisa Reichelt speaks with Kate Broderick, a dual qualified speech therapist and occupational therapist, about the transition from behaviorism to a relationship-based approach in education.  Kate shares her personal journey as a parent of neurodivergent children and discusses the importance of building trust-based relationships to create safer and more inclusive learning environments.  They consider the challenges and strategies for advocating for educational transformation and the critical role of nervous system safety in child development. Kate also introduces her upcoming book as a resource for teachers and parents. 00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast 00:26 Meet Kate Broderick: A Dual Qualified Therapist and School Can't Mum 01:04 Understanding Neurodivergence and Parenting 06:54 Challenges and Strategies in School Environments 14:39 Behavioral vs. Relational Approaches in Education 18:22 Building Trust and Relationships in Schools 22:26 Advocacy and Resources for Parents 30:35 Kate's Upcoming Book and Final Thoughts 37:08 Conclusion and Resources Recommended Resources Dr Ross Greene, Lives in the Balance: https://livesinthebalance.org/Dr Mona Delahooke: https://monadelahooke.com/Dr Vanessa LaPointe: https://drvanessalapointe.com/Maggie Dent: https://www.maggiedent.com/Gordon Neufeld, The Neufeld Institute: https://www.neufeldinstitute.org/Reframing Autism: https://reframingautism.org.au/Belongside Families: https://belongsidefamilies.org.au/Send us a text Support the show 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.

    38 min
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    School Can't Australia
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The School Can't Experience
  • Show Website
    The School Can't Experience

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