There is no quick and simple solution, nor a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to improving school attendance. However, partnerships between schools, parents and the local community can assist in reducing absenteeism and making every day count at school.
School absenteeism and truancy can impact significantly on students' learning and wellbeing.
Research shows that in Queensland, higher student attendance is associated, on average, with higher student achievement. Additionally, attending school every day helps children to build social and emotional skills such as communication, teamwork and resilience.
Under the law, you must make sure your child is enrolled and attends school on all school days unless there is a reasonable excuse. Schools must monitor attendance of students and follow up with parents and caregivers any unexplained absences.
If your child does not want to go to school, or is missing school without you knowing, contact your school immediately for assistance and support.
Schools will:
monitor student attendance
notify you if your child has an unexplained absence as soon as practicable on the day of your child's absence and continue to follow-up with you as practicable
use effective teaching strategies to engage your child in learning
help you with strategies to encourage your child to go to school
provide support for families.
You can find detailed information in this area by clicking on the below links including:
Regular school attendance
Anxiety about going to school
Preparing your child for high school
How can I get my teenager to go to school?