Classroom robots boost confidence and attendance for children in Wakefield
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Wakefield schools are embracing innovative technology to support children and young people who struggle with attendance due to medical needs, mental health challenges, or emotionally based school avoidance.
21 AV1 robots have been deployed to schools across the Wakefield district. These robots allow children to learn remotely, whilst still being able to feel like they are part of the class.
“It is amazing to see this new technology being implemented to assist our district’s children and young people. There are many reasons why a child might not attend school, but that doesn’t mean that they are not still entitled to learn and stay connected. The AV1 robots allow children to still join in with lessons and activities, even if they are not there.”
Cllr Margaret Isherwood
Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
One Year 3 pupil at St John’s C of E Primary School was struggling with attendance and the school introduced AV1 to help her reconnect.
By September, her attendance had climbed from 3% to 76%. She was not only logging into lessons but also attending the summer fair and cheering on her brother at the end-of-year performance.
Sarah Jackson, Year 3 Teacher and SENDco at St John’s C of E Primary School, said: “It gave her access to the classroom without the sensory overload or social pressure. She could listen, join in quietly and just start reconnecting.”
Another student at The King’s School (Pontefract Academies Trust) was able to make a full time return to mainstream school after connecting through AV1. The robot allowed her to access lessons in a way that felt manageable, which meant she was able to integrate back into class in just three months.
Following the success of the pilot scheme, a trial has begun to introduce the robots to SEND youth groups and activities, where people are unable to attend in person. By being able to attend youth groups remotely, the AV1 robot is helping to maintain friendship, build confidence and reduce isolation. Which all contribute to improved wellbeing and personal development.