Absence rates falling in schools

Statistics released by the Department for Education show that absence rates declined during autumn term 2009 and spring 2010.

Figures show that absenteeism fell across both primary and secondary schools.

Schools minister Nick Gibb welcomed the decline, but said levels are still too high.

"The government is committed to tackling the underlying causes of absenteeism, raising academic standards and ensuring every child can meet their potential, regardless of their background," he commented.

Mr Gibb noted that measures are being put in place to raise behaviour standards and put teachers back in control of the classroom.

"We are also introducing the first ever pupil premium to ensure pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds benefit from the same opportunities as their more affluent peers," he added.

A poll by Sunshine.co.uk published last week revealed that over 30 million lessons are missed every year as a result of children taking holidays during term time.

 

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