Weir launches ‘Miss School=Miss Out’ A Strategy for Improving Pupil Attendance

Education Minister, Peter Weir, has launched a new attendance strategy aimed at improving pupil attendance at school.

The universal strategy formally brings together the policies which are already in place, to ensure a consistent approach.  Complementing the strategy, the Education and Training Inspectorate has also issued a good practice guide and illustrative case studies on to managing attendance.

The Minister said:

“Raising standards in education and improving the life chances of our children is one of my top priorities.  Regular attendance at school maximises opportunities for young people by providing them with qualifications, experience and confidence for the best start in life. 

“Whilst the majority of pupils do attend school regularly, there are some children and young people who struggle to attend for one reason or another.  These young people need our help and support.  ‘Miss School=Miss Out’ formally brings together policies into one place and focuses on strengthening key areas.” 

In addition to the ‘Miss School=Miss out’ strategy the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) has also issued a good practice guide to managing attendance.

The Minister said:

“The survey carried out by the ETI confirmed that there is no single action which offers a ‘quick fix’ for poor attendance.  In reality, there needs to be holistic approach if we are to see an effective solution.  We must work together if we are going to deliver the best possible opportunities for our young people.  My Department will continue to work with key stakeholders to ensure the importance of regularly attending school is widely understood and promoted.”

The Attendance in Schools: Good Practice School Case Studies illustrates some of the most effective practices in transforming approaches to better attendance.  The case studies complement the publication by the Department of Miss School = Miss Out: a strategy for improving school attendance, and are a key reference for all schools.  

Notes to editors: 

1. The strategy can be found on the DE website.
2. From 343 schools surveyed and 45 schools visited, the ETI has shared 12 primary and 12 post-primary school case studies. The ETI good practice guide can be found on their website.
3. Follow us on Twitter @education_NI
4. See photos from the Department of Education in our flickr collection.
5. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 0762 397 4383, and your call will be returned.

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