'School attendance crisis a legacy of not just Covid but a decade of austerity'

08 January 2024 , 22:30

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Schools are struggling to get some kids back into school since the pandemic (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Regular attendance at school is vital for children’s learning and social development.

The drop in attendance since Covid is therefore a real concern for school leaders and the reasons for this are complex. They range from increased physical illness to mental ill-health and unmet special educational needs among children.

Increased poverty is also a factor. Children’s attendance suffers if parents cannot afford transport to school, properly fitting uniforms or learning materials, or they have unsuitable living arrangements.

For once, politicians of different political persuasions agree action is needed to address the issue. The Government has pledged more attendance hubs in which schools can share best practice and will also offer intensive support for more than 10,000 pupils and their families.

NAHT General Secretary Paul Whiteman said schools need more boots on the ground (NAHT)

General Secretary of the NAHT