Designing a curriculum that is both relevant and engaging can have a significant impact on attendance.  A curriculum rationale that aligns with the interests and needs of students enhances their motivation to attend school regularly. By incorporating real-world applications, diverse perspectives, and interactive learning experiences, the curriculum becomes more compelling, fostering a positive attitude towards education.

A well-designed curriculum addresses the diverse learning styles and interests of students, making them feel more connected to the learning process. This connection, in turn, contributes to a sense of purpose and belonging, encouraging students to attend school consistently. Moreover, a curriculum that emphasises the acquisition of essential life skills and knowledge applicable to their future enhances the perceived value of education, further motivating students to prioritise attendance. Regularly assessing and updating the curriculum based on feedback from students, teachers, and the community ensures its continued relevance, promoting sustained interest and attendance. Therefore, a thoughtfully crafted curriculum not only enhances the quality of education but also plays a pivotal role in creating an environment where students are inspired to attend school consistently in the context of Scottish education.

Curriculum Design Toolkit | Resources | National Improvement Hub (education.gov.scot)

DandG Headteachers Conference – April 2024 – small (1)

Curriculum for Excellence promotes creativity and innovation in curriculum design. This includes opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement and active learning, collaboration and partnership in delivering individualised curriculum pathways to meet the needs of all children and young people.

Schools and ELCs in Dumfries and Galloway must support children and young people’s engagement and attendance through offering a coherent 3-18 curriculum that builds skills in literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing. This should include a range of work based learning and wider achievement and qualifications beyond the National Qualifications. Partners from sectors within and out with the local authority should, where possible, support schools in providing packages of support to engage children and young people.

The National strategy ‘Developing the Young Workforce’ promotes opportunities for career education, work placements and industry experience as part of the formal educational offer. Schools should have in place programmes of learning with vocational and work experience elements in collaboration with partner agencies to ensure young people are fully engaged and involved.