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He Won't Go To School

Andrew is a school refuser. Lockdown has suited him without the option or pressure to go in. What will happen when schools open up again? Grace Dent documents 21st century dramas.

Andrew is a school refuser. He hasn’t done a full day of school since 2019.

"He will just refuse to get dressed. He will hide under his bed. And if you physically try and get him out of the house, he is not a violent child in any way, but he will hurt you to get away from the situation."

His parents are trying to pursue their careers but, even if they can coax him through the school gates, they often get a call an hour later to pick him up.

Everyone has tried to understand why he won’t go. He has recently been diagnosed with autism which may be a factor. But Andrew can’t tell them. And no-one knows the answer or is suggesting a solution.

Andrew has been blissfully happy in lockdown without the option or pressure of being made to go in. What will happen when restrictions are lifted and schools open again?

Narrator: Grace Dent
Producer: Sarah Bowen

Available now

28 minutes

Last on

Sun 26 Sep 2021 21:30
Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4

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Broadcasts

  • Mon 14 Jun 2021 11:00
    Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4
  • Sun 26 Sep 2021 21:30
    Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4

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Hand-drawn illustrations by Niki Pilkington

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    A series documenting the untold dramas of 21st-century Britain.