School absences are a growing concern across UK education institutions, with an increasing number of students missing out on essential learning. The causes for these absences range from mental health issues and anxiety to socio-economic challenges and post-pandemic disruptions. As educators face this challenge, it’s essential to understand how to address absenteeism effectively, ensuring that all students, including school refusers, can make progress.
Understanding the Problem
The Department for Education (DfE) reported that persistent absence rates reached 19.4% in Autumn 2023. The impact of this is significant, not only on students’ academic achievements but also on their social development and prospects. The root causes of absenteeism, particularly for vulnerable students, requires a strategic, tailored approach.
Early Intervention: The Key to Success
The earlier absenteeism is addressed, the better the chances of getting students back on track. Schools are encouraged to create supportive environments where open communication with students and parents is prioritised. Identifying barriers to attendance, such as mental health concerns or challenging home environments, allows educators to provide targeted support.
One successful strategy is implementing personalised learning plans, particularly for those who struggle with anxiety or other health issues that keep them from attending traditional classes. By adopting a more flexible, tailored approach, schools can help bridge the gap for these students.
MAT Tutors: Supporting School Absences with Tailored Tutoring
At MAT Recruitment, we understand the challenges schools face with absenteeism. Our MAT Tutors service is designed to support students who find regular attendance difficult. Through tailored, online tutoring sessions, we work with students on a one-to-one basis, ensuring they stay engaged with learning even if they cannot attend school in person.
Our success is reflected in the data: in collaboration with a Multi-Academy Trust, we supported a cohort of students who were struggling with consistent attendance. Of those we worked with, 70% of students attended more than 80% of their online sessions, a significant improvement that reflects the effectiveness of our approach. By providing personalised support, we empower students to continue their education, build confidence, and progress academically.
The Role of External Support and Collaboration
Addressing school absences often requires collaboration between educators, mental health professionals, and external support services. Many schools are now partnering with external organisations, such as tutoring services, to ensure students who are disengaged or struggling with attendance can receive the additional support they need outside of regular school hours. Services like CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) also play a crucial role in supporting students with more complex needs.
If your school is grappling with rising absenteeism or is facing a growing number of school refusers, MAT Tutors can help. Our specialist tutors provide personalised, engaging sessions that meet the needs of each student. By working closely with educators, we ensure that students who may not be able to attend regular classes still make meaningful academic progress.
While the issue of rising absenteeism poses a significant challenge to schools across the UK, there are solutions that can help students remain engaged and successful in their education. By focusing on early intervention, personalised support, and collaboration with services like MAT Tutors, educators can create pathways for students to return to learning with confidence and consistency.
Visit our website MAT Recruitment to learn more about how we can support your school and help students achieve success, even in challenging circumstances.
