Autistic girls and emotionally based school avoidance: supportive factors for successful re-engagement in mainstream high school

School can be challenging for autistic girls who are at risk of internalised anxiety which can ultimately lead to school avoidance. Low attendance is acknowledged as negatively impacting educational attainment and exacerbating mental health difficulties. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with three autistic girls aged 13–15 years from different high schools, their parent(s) and key adult. Thematic analysis identified the first phase of re-engagement is developing a trusting student–key adult relationship. This provides the foundation for social and emotional intervention. Challenges were also acknowledged and possible improvements reflected upon. These results will aid educators and researchers aiming to support the successful inclusion of autistic girls at risk of experiencing emotionally based school avoidance in mainstream high schools.