New Ofsted report into pupil attendance

Ofsted have released a report ‘Securing good attendance and tackling persistent absence’. It looks at different aspects of pupil attendance and how schools tackle the challenges associated with supporting pupils in this area.

The report indicates that schools that improve attendance from a low baseline and minimise persistent absence adopt strategies that can be summarised as “listen, understand, empathise and support – but do not tolerate”. Whilst this phasing appears contradictory in itself it also could be construed as being at odds with the current attendance consultation that seems to promote a more punitive, less empathetic and supportive approach.

There has been an increase in attendance challenges since the autumn term 2021 and schools with successful strategies have worked hard to recognise and understand pupils’ anxieties. They have recognised the complexity that can often underpin absence and try to sensitively recognise these and address concerns.

Leaders in schools with effective, successful support also get beneath the surface of the absenteeism and work with each individual to ensure the approach is personalised. Leaders also emphasised the need for school to be a safe place where pupils want to be. In addition, ensuring that the curriculum is accessible and engaging for all students and overall provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is effective. This ensures all pupils, including those who are often marginalised– too many of whom often have poor attendance – have a positive experience of school.

With recent research on flexi-schooling and the current attendance and behaviour consultations, the government are keen for schools to have their say on how best these may support our vulnerable children and young people best within the education system.