Taking a line for a walk: including school refusers

Head, G. and Jamieson, S. (2006) Taking a line for a walk: including school refusers. Pastoral Care in Education, 24(3), pp. 32-40.

Abstract

This article explores the experience of a group of young people who experienced difficulty attending school. Young people's reasons for not attending school and the support provided for them by their teachers are examined. Finally, an analysis based on a shift in identity from school refuser to effective learner is offered as an explanation for the students' success in coping with school. The authors draw on Paul Klee's metaphor of art as a development that can go forwards, backward, up and down as similar to the processes of working with such young people. They argue that to expect linear progress is both unrealistic and sets unfair expectations on students and their teachers.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Head, Dr George
• Authors: Head, G., and Jamieson, S.
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BV Practical Theology > BV1460 Religious Education; L Education > LB Theory and practice of education
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education
• Journal Name: Pastoral Care in Education
• ISSN: 0264-3944
• ISSN (Online): 1468-0122
• Published Online: 27 July 2006