Pupil attendance: still a lingering issue
Following the pandemic pupil absence has risen more than 50% and persistent absence has doubled. Reports show that there is now a disconnect between school and home and the focus on attendance has shifted to other priorities for some parents, for example, youth mental health, term time holidays or the cost of living.
Why does it matter?
Regular attendance is vital for success but understanding the rise in absence and tackling it needs addressing. The government has put in place guidance and toolkits to help schools in discussing the issues they are facing with parents. Data shows that pupils who performed better missed fewer school days than those who did not perform as well. Alongside attainment there are issues such as access to extracurricular opportunities, safeguarding and pastoral care which is why there is focus on getting pupils back to school.
When schools can permit absence
Schools may only permit absences in certain limited circumstances and school leaders are responsible for deciding what counts as an ‘exceptional circumstance’ when it comes to a pupil missing school (e.g., applications for leave of absence). Schools should look at applications individually, considering the specific facts and the background context to a request.
Strategies for increasing attendance
Schools should be aiming to boost attendance through initiatives and use of the data visualization tools to highlight patterns. This will help schools focus on issues in their area surrounding attendance and where necessary increase access to Attendance Hubs and Mentors to support pupils back into schools by sharing best practice and practical resources.
Available support for schools and trusts
If you would like any further information or want to talk to us about a specific issue you are dealing with, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Key contact
Laura Murphy
Associate
Laura.murphy@brownejacobson.com
+44 (0)115 908 4886
Discover more
Related expertise
You may be interested in...
Legal Update
High Court dismisses school prayer ban challenge
Legal Update
School leaders survey Spring 2024 - the results are in
Guide
Revisions to Ofsted’s complaints procedure: what you need to know
Legal Update
OFS Consultation on freedom of speech guidance
Legal Update
Understanding the ICO's new fining guidance
Legal Update
7 ways academy trusts can prepare for the new Corporate Transparency Act
Online Event
School complaints: handling problem parent behaviour
Press Release - Firm news
Three newly-qualified solicitors join Browne Jacobson’s education team
Podcast - #EdInfluence
#EdInfluence podcast (series 3) - in conversation with inspiring leaders
Opinion
Can teachers personal and political views amount to misconduct?
Legal Update
New leadership for our education team
Press Release - Firm news
Browne Jacobson announces Nick MacKenzie to succeed Mark Blois as head of Browne Jacobson’s education team
Legal Update
Changes to academy conversion funding
Legal Update
Holiday pay: Government change clarifies treatment of term time only workers
Legal Update
All change at Companies House - Corporate Transparency Act
Online Event
Understanding the changing role of company secretary for academy trusts
Legal Update
Cyber-attacks in UK universities: Why failing to prepare is no longer an option
Opinion
School attendance matters
Legal Update
Not quite a blanket ban on mobile phones in schools: DfE guidance insights
Legal Update
Charity law update – March 2024
Opinion
Caregivers at work: Navigating new carer's leave regulations
Legal Update
Updated guidance for collaborative learning delivery in higher education
Opinion
EHRC publishes new guidance on menopause and the workplace
In Person Event
Child protection in Education – London
In Person Event
Leading Safeguarding 2024 - London
In Person Event
Optimus: HR update and people strategy
Legal Update - Be Connected (schools)
Be Connected (schools and academy trusts) - February 2024
Legal Update
Ofsted reform: Where are we now and where do we go from here?
Legal Update
New case on the reasonable adjustment duty for pupils in schools
Legal Update
What does the new gender questioning guidance mean for schools?
Legal Update
How do holiday pay reforms affect the education sector?
Legal Update - Building Safety Act
Do your campus buildings comply with the latest legislation?
Published Article
Proactive handling of vexatious complaints and abuse of staff in schools
Legal Update
Subsidy control: Guide to streamlined routes for universities
Legal Update
Data protection in higher education: what to expect in 2024
Legal Update
Installing EV charge points on university campuses
Legal Update
Holiday reforms: What employers need to know
Legal Update
Employment law in 2024: How changes impact education
Legal Update
Backpay for leavers: Employers risk unlawful deduction from wages claims
