Transforming Attendance with the Multi-Tiered System of Supports

School attendance and school attendance problems (SAPs) are a national concern for the education sector. A comprehensive and integrated approach is required to address the multiple factors that underlie non-attendance.

In this workshop, a contemporary multi-tiered approach to school attendance will be described with relevant examples for implementation within schools. This evidence-based approach incorporates Tier 1 preventative strategies, Tier 2 targeted early intervention, and Tier 3 intensive supports for school attendance problems. Attendees will commence work on auditing their current practices towards improving attendance and developing an attendance plan for their school. A reading pack of attendance resources will also be provided.

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are included. Please specify any special dietary requirements when you book.

Workshop Facilitators:

Associate Professor Lisa McKay-Brown is the Associate Dean Diversity and Inclusion at the Faculty of Education, University of Melbourne. Lisa has over 25 years of teaching and leadership experience in a wide range of education settings with a specific focus on the inclusion of students with disability. Internationally recognised for her research in the field of school attendance, she also serves on the Executive Board of the International Network for School Attendance. Lisa leads the Faculty of Education Disability Research Collaboration, overseeing projects such as the In2School programs for chronic school absenteeism and Pathways2Participation aimed at enhancing school attendance using Multi-Tiered Systems of Support.

Associate Professor Glenn Melvin is a practising clinical psychologist from the School of Psychology, Deakin University and an honorary associate professor at the University of Warwick (UK). Glenn's research has focused on developing novel interventions to support school attendance for young people, their parents and school. Glenn regularly provides training to schools, clinical services and parents on methods of improving school attendance. Glenn is a founding member of the International Network for School Attendance. His current research interests include understanding and responding to school attendance problems, particularly school refusal.

Special Guests:

Associate Professor Michael Gordon, Child Psychiatrist, Unit Head Monash Health Early in Life Mental Health Service. Michael will provide a mental health perspective to supporting students with Tier 3 school attendance problems.

Katrina Gow, Parent Advocate. Katrina will share her perspective as a parent of a teen who refused school.