FAMILY COACHING · THE BACK ON TRACK PROGRAMME
When school becomes a battle, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Is your child refusing to go to school, getting into trouble, or just not themselves anymore? Maybe you’ve tried everything: talking, rewards, consequences, endless emails with school. And you’re left feeling lost, frustrated, and quietly wondering if it’s your fault.
It isn't. And there is a way forward.
✓ Former Deputy Headteacher
✓ 25 years in schools in both London and Dubai
✓ Experience with ADHD and autism
✓ A dad myself

DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR?
Every school morning feels like a battle.
Mornings are a fight
Every school day starts with tears, arguments, or a bedroom door that won't open.
The emails keep coming
Absences, behaviour points, meetings, and you're not sure what to do next.
You've tried everything
Talking, rewards, consequences. Nothing seems to stick for long.
They're not themselves
Withdrawn, angry or anxious, and it's affecting the whole family.
School doesn't fit them
ADHD, autism or a suspected need, and school doesn't seem to understand.
You're running on empty
Exhausted and worried, and nobody seems to be on your side.
It isn't your fault. And with the right support, things can change.
HOW I HELP
Calmer at home. Working with school, not against it.
I work with families whose children are struggling at school, whether that’s school avoidance, behaviour, anxiety, or the challenges that often come with ADHD and autism. Together, we:
✓ Understand what's really going on for your child
✓ Focus on what you can control
✓ Build a calmer relationship at home
✓ Get home and school working together
✓ Create a clear plan to get back on track
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THE BACK ON TRACK FAMILY PROGRAMME
Six weeks to a calmer, clearer way forward.
1
Parent session
We look at the full picture, ease the pressure, and set clear goals together.
2
Time with your child
Relaxed, often active sessions to build trust and hear their side of the story.
3
Family session
Creating a shared understanding, and a plan everyone can stick to.
4
School support
Preparing you for school meetings, and helping you ask for the right support.
5
Follow-up sessions
Reviewing progress and adjusting the plan as things change.
6
Support between sessions
Messages in between, so you’re never left on your own.
WHY WORK WITH ME?
I’ve sat on both sides of the table.
I’ve spent over 25 years in education, most recently as a Deputy Headteacher and Head of Sport. I’ve been in countless meetings with parents and schools, so I know how schools work, what support to ask for, and how to get it.
1
I know how schools think, and how to work with them
2
I understand why some children struggle to fit the school mould
3
I connect with teenagers, often through activities they enjoy
4
As a dad myself, I know how hard it is when your child is struggling
WHAT FAMILIES SAY
You’re not the first family to feel this way.
Barry has been amazing at helping Lucas find his feet. The combination of sport and mentorship has made a real difference. Our whole family has benefitted from Barry’s knowledge, care and constant support.
Pam, parent of a Year 11 student
Barry has been a great support through a tough time and we are so grateful for his help, support and kindness throughout.
Laura, parent of a Year 8 student
QUESTIONS PARENTS ASK
Good to know
Something else on your mind? Message me on WhatsApp and I'll reply personally.
No. This is coaching, not therapy or medical diagnosis. It focuses on understanding what’s happening, practical changes and a clear plan. Where a child needs specialist support, such as an assessment or therapy, I’ll tell you honestly and help you find the right professionals.
That’s very common, and it’s fine. I often start with relaxed, active sessions, such as a walk or an activity they enjoy, so it doesn’t feel like “another adult wanting to talk.” And much of the programme works with you as parents, which helps even when your child isn’t ready yet.
I’ll help you prepare for school meetings: what to ask for, how to explain your child’s needs, and how to keep things constructive. Where it helps and everyone agrees, I can also join a meeting with you.
Yes. Many of the young people I work with are neurodivergent. I don’t diagnose, but I understand why school can be so hard for them, and I’m happy to work alongside their school, therapist or other professionals.
Parent sessions can be online or in person in Dubai. Time with your child is usually in person, often doing something active, and family sessions are at home or another comfortable place.
The six-week Back on Track Family Programme is AED 3500, and a one-off parent consultation is AED 650. We’ll talk through what would help most in our first conversation, with no obligation.
Prefer email?
No problem at all. Send me a short message about what’s happening, and I’ll get back to you personally.
Or email me directly at bchaters@elitemindsetteacher.com