In primary schools less than 65% of children achieve good results in English and Maths, with an average of 15 days absence a year compared to almost 90% where the average is less than 8 days.

Parents can be very surprised at how quickly their children can accumulate 15 days absence within a year. Research has also shown that children who are not in school can become vulnerable.

If children do not attend school regularly they may:

• Struggle to keep up with school work. In a busy school day it is difficult for schools to find the extra time to help a child catch up.
• Miss out on the social side of school life. Poor attendance can affect children’s ability to make and keep friendships; a vital part of growing up.