PUPILS in Welsh primary schools have the worst attendance rates in the UK, according to a new report by an education watchdog.

In a report published today, Estyn said attendance had improved in the past year and set out strategies employed by schools which have successfully tackled poor attendance.

Meilyr Rowlands, chief inspector, said: “Although there has been an improvement in attendance rates over the last year, pupils in Welsh primary schools still miss more school than those in the rest of the UK.

“Effective school leaders understand the importance of attendance to pupils’ life chances.  I am confident that the strategies outlined in the report will help schools to improve pupils’ attendance and continue the upward trend in attendance rates.”

The report, ‘Effective practice in improving attendance in primary schools’,contains case studies of best practice from primary schools across Wales. Inspectors found that schools with consistently good or improved attendance:

  • Create a welcoming environment for pupils
  • Have a clear attendance policy
  • Engage well with pupils and parents
  • Analyse and monitor data about absence and the reasons for it
  • Develop strong links with community support services
  • Have specified staff responsible for improving attendance
  • Use appropriate rewards and incentives
  • Involve school leaders and governors in evaluating attendance strategies

The report recommends that schools implement all the strategies identified in the report to make sure that all pupils attend school regularly. It also says local authorities should facilitate the sharing of best practice and ensure that challenge advisers support and challenge to school leaders about pupils’ attendance. 

It recommended that the Welsh Government promote their 2011 guidance outlining strategies for schools to improve attendance and manage lateness.