Improving school attendance
School attendance is a national issue. Schools and services are working hard to support parents and children better.
Other initiatives include:
- Introducing a new daily data tool. This now makes it easier for school leaders and teachers to analyse attendance. All state schools will share their daily registers. This will mean that children with persistent absence can be identified and supported
- Setting up the Attendance Hubs programme. This supports schools across the country to share practical solutions. Together they can help break down barriers to school attendance
- Forming an Attendance Action Alliance. National education and sector leaders now work together to target the reasons behind poor attendance
- Collecting evidence. If children are not registered at school or having a suitable home education, the evidence will help us get policies right in future. Identifying 'best practice' will help make sure all children receive an appropriate education
- Introducing a national framework for parent fines for unauthorised absence. It's important to make sure there is consistency and that there is support first
- Appointing a new National Attendance Ambassador. This role will directly support the development of the attendance hubs programme.
Together, these measures aim to improve attendance. This will lead to better attainment and mental wellbeing amongst school children.
Support and advice
Children may struggle to attend school for a wide range of reasons. The school and local authority have a responsibility to help. The aim is to support your child to improve their attendance.
In most cases, if your child’s attendance level is falling, their school will contact you. They'll explore the reasons with you and discuss them. They'll want to find the support that would best help you overcome the barriers your child is facing.