Thank you for all those who contacted me about Children Missing Education. This is a critical issue that has emerged in recent years and has been exacerbated by the challenges posed by the pandemic. I’m sure this is a matter that deeply concerns us all.
School absence rates are significantly higher than they were before the pandemic. Persistent absence rates (where pupils were missing from school for at least ten per cent of sessions) stood at 13.1% during the autumn term of 2019. However, these rates have since surged to a staggering 24.2% by the same term in 2022. This drastic increase is not just a number; it represents the lives and futures of our children.
The consequences of such high absence rates are significant. Absence from school not only hampers a child's academic progress but also places them at risk of harm, exploitation, or even radicalisation. Furthermore, it significantly increases the likelihood of these children becoming NEET (not in education, employment, or training) later in life.
It is crucial to remember that all children, regardless of their circumstances, are entitled to an efficient, full-time education that suits their age, ability, aptitude, and any special educational needs they may have. Children missing education are those of compulsory school age who are not registered pupils at a school and are not receiving suitable education elsewhere. Although, CME make up a very small minority of school-aged children and some will be missing education for a short period, for example, while they move between schools during the academic year. Children who miss longer periods of education present greater concerns, and it is especially important that these children can be effectively identified and supported. And therefore, identifying and supporting these children effectively is paramount, especially for those missing education for extended periods.
The Government has recognised the urgency of this issue and is taking steps to increase school attendance rates. These measures include the expansion of the sector-led attendance hubs program, which will see nine new lead hub schools supporting up to 600 schools in England. Additionally, attendance mentors will be deployed in areas with the highest levels of pupil absence.
These initiatives build upon the Government's existing attendance strategy, which sets out new expectations for schools, trusts, and local authorities. It also includes a national attendance data dashboard to provide more up-to-date attendance data, enabling schools to target the most vulnerable children. The work of the national Attendance Action Alliance is also contributing to this comprehensive approach.
The Department for Education recently launched a call for evidence on 'Improving Support for Children Missing Education' in England. While the consultation is now closed, I eagerly anticipate the findings and recommendations.
I want to assure you that my ministerial colleagues and I are committed to ensuring that all children, especially the most vulnerable in our society, are safe and have access to an excellent education.
To find out more about this or if you have any further concerns, I recommend visiting our local council’s site:
https://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/education-learning/schools/attendance-behaviour
Thank you again for those who reached put around this issue and bringing your concerns to my attention. Together, we can work towards a society where every child's right to education is safeguarded and nurtured.