When Your Child Struggles with Education: Finding a Way Forward

Every parent wants to see their child happy, learning, and thriving in education. But for some young people, school can feel like a constant uphill struggle, a place that doesn’t quite fit who they are or how they learn.

If your child is beginning to disengage from school, it can be worrying and confusing. You may have tried everything you can think of, talking to teachers, seeking extra support, changing routines, yet things still don’t seem to click.

At Future Pathways, we understand how challenging this can be for both parents and young people. The good news is that there is a way forward.

Why Some Young People Struggle with Education

There are many reasons a child might find school difficult. For some, the structure or environment of traditional education doesn’t meet their needs. For others, social or emotional factors can make it hard to feel comfortable or confident.

Some common challenges include:

• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs – such as anxiety, low self-esteem, or difficulty managing emotions.
  

• Autism or Special Educational Needs (SEN) – where the school environment may feel overwhelming or unaccommodating.
  

• Bullying or peer difficulties, leading to school avoidance or withdrawal.
  

• Low confidence or past negative experiences that have built barriers to engagement.

Every young person’s story is different, and that’s why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work.

What Parents Can Do

1. Start with understanding, not pressure. When a child is struggling, frustration can build on both sides. But often, what they need most is to feel heard and understood. Ask open questions about what’s difficult for them and listen without judgement.
   

2. Work with the school — not against it. Teachers and pastoral teams want the best for your child too. Keep communication open, share your concerns early, and ask about any available support or adjustments.
   

3. Focus on strengths, not just struggles. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s going wrong. Try to identify what your child enjoys, whether it’s sport, creative work, or hands-on learning, and build from there.
   

4. Seek additional support when needed.

   Sometimes, external help makes a world of difference. Alternative provision like Future Pathways provides a different kind of environment, one built on empathy, understanding, and engagement through sport and activity.

How Future Pathways Helps

We work with young people who have become disengaged from education, helping them to rebuild confidence and rediscover their love of learning.

Our approach is bespoke and relational, meaning we take time to understand each individual’s needs, interests, and challenges. Through sport, outdoor activities, and positive mentoring, we create experiences that foster self-belief and personal growth.

We’ve seen incredible transformations:

• Young people who once refused to attend school now look forward to learning again.
  

• Those who struggled with social or emotional challenges now feel safe, supported, and valued.
  

Parents and schools who once felt at a loss now see hope and progress.

You’re Not Alone

If your child is struggling with education, please know this, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed, and it doesn’t mean your child can’t succeed.

Every young person’s journey is unique. With the right support, encouragement, and environment, they can find their way forward, step by step.

At Future Pathways, we’re here to help young people find their path and discover their future.

Get in Touch

If you’re a parent or carer looking for help and guidance, visit www.futurepathways.uk to learn more about our alternative provision and how we can support your child.

💚 Together, we can help your young person find confidence, connection, and a brighter future.