Every school day counts and even just a few days of missed school can have a significant impact on a child’s education and future prospects.
Knowsley Council is reminding pupils and their parents / carers of the importance of attending school regularly.
What can happen if you miss school
At primary school, children who attend school every day in Year 6 (95-100% attendance) are 30% more likely to reach the expected standard in reading, writing and maths compared to similar pupils who attend 90-95% of the time.
The link is even stronger at secondary school. Year 11 pupils with near-perfect attendance are almost twice as likely to achieve grade 5 in English and Maths GCSE, compared to similar pupils attending 90-95% of the time.
Missing just 10 days a year reduces the likelihood of achieving these grades by around 50%.
Missing school doesn’t just affect exam results and a child’s time in education – it can impact future earnings too.
Persistently absent pupils in secondary school could earn £10,000 less at age 28 compared to pupils with near-perfect attendance.
What can parents and carers do?
As a parent or carer, you have an important role in making school attendance a priority. Only keep your child off school when they are genuinely too ill to attend. Book medical appointments and holidays outside of school time whenever possible. And talk to your child’s school if you’re having difficulties with attendance.
Cllr David Lonergan, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said “It’s really important that children and young people attend school every day.
“They get to learn new things, develop skills and interests which will help with their future career choice, engage in a range of activities and opportunities that aren’t available elsewhere, plus there’s the social aspect too.
“People think that having an odd day off won’t adversely impact them, but it does and playing catch up and falling behind can quick escalate if it isn’t addressed sooner rather than later.
“Attend school every day and maximise the opportunities that attending school brings.”