Jena launches LernWILLA to support students facing school absenteeism

A new initiative called ‘LernWILLA’ has opened in Jena-Winzerla to support children and adolescents struggling with school refusal or chronic absenteeism. The program is designed for young people aged ten and older who have become significantly distanced from regular school life.

Rather than acting as a traditional school, the facility—housed in a former kindergarten—provides spaces for movement, creativity, and relaxation. The primary goal of the team is to investigate the underlying causes of school avoidance, which may include bullying, academic pressure, domestic issues, or mental health challenges. By working closely with the students, their families, and their schools, the program aims to create a pathway for a successful return to regular education.