Over 100 pupils at home with 'school phobia' during first term

One principal said that oftentimes the only available support for these children is a spot on a 'waiting list, rather than active therapy.' Picture: Ben Birchall/PA

More than 100 students were unable to attend school in the first half of the new term due to ‘school phobia’, depression, or anxiety.

Ahead of the mid-term break, figures provided to the Irish Examiner show 114 children had received home tuition so far this term, due to a diagnosis of ‘school phobia’ and/or associated depression and anxiety.