Experts from The University of Manchester are warning that school attendance across England still hasn’t recovered for many children since the pandemic – and the gap between rich and poor pupils is growing.
Experts from The University of Manchester are warning that school attendance across England still hasn’t recovered for many children since the pandemic – and the gap between rich and poor pupils is growing.
Their findings are the latest in the Child of the North #ChildrenFirst series, which calls for urgent action to help every child stay in school and thrive.
The data shows that Children with Education Health and Care Plans are seven times more likely to miss more than half their school sessions.
Pupils on Free School Meals are four times more likely to have severe absence and Suspensions are nearly four times higher for pupils with special needs or living in poverty.
“Too many children are being failed by a system that doesn’t meet their needs,” said Professor Caroline Bond, who co-led the research alongside Dr Luke Munford.
The researchers say progress on attendance since the pandemic has been slow – and for some children, things are getting worse. They’re calling for a joined-up approach that brings together schools, families and community services.
“Every missed day of school means a missed opportunity,” said Baroness Anne Longfield, founder of the Centre for Young Lives. “This research shines a light on the urgent need to fix attendance and make sure every child gets the education they deserve.”
