The age and stage of development of a child or young person can impact school attendance. Different age groups face unique challenges and circumstances that influence their ability to attend school regularly.
Early Years
Separation Anxiety
Young children, particularly those starting school, may experience separation anxiety, making it difficult for them to attend school regularly.
Developmental Health Issues
Younger children are more susceptible to common illnesses and infections, leading to higher absenteeism.
Is my child too ill for school? – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Parental Influence
At this age, attendance largely depends on parental decisions and attitudes towards education. Parents’ perceptions of the importance of regular attendance can significantly influence young children’s attendance patterns.
Upper Primary & Lower Secondary
Increased Academic Pressure
Young people in upper primary or lower secondary may face increased academic pressure, leading to school avoidance behaviours if they feel overwhelmed or unprepared.
Social Dynamics
Issues such as bullying or difficulties in social integration can lead to truancy or reluctance to attend school. Positive or negative peer influence can impact attendance, with some students missing school to fit in with friends.
Health and Development
The onset of puberty can bring about mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, contributing to absences. Furthermore, rapid physical development and associated health issues can also impact attendance.
Senior Phase of Secondary School
Increased Responsibilities
Older young people may take on part-time jobs, which can interfere with school attendance if not managed properly.
Some students may have increased family responsibilities, such as caring for younger siblings or contributing to household income, affecting their ability to attend school regularly.
Transition to Adulthood
As young people approach adulthood, they exercise more independence, and their own attitudes towards education can significantly impact attendance.
Preparing for exams, further education, or employment can lead to stress and absenteeism if students feel unprepared or uncertain about their future.
Engagement and Motivation
Older pupils may question the relevance of their education to their future goals, leading to disengagement and absenteeism.
Curriculum Design Toolkit | Resources | National Improvement Hub (education.gov.scot)
Participation in extracurricular activities can either positively or negatively affect attendance, depending on how well these activities are balanced with academic responsibilities.
Strategies to Support Attendance Across Age Groups
Early Intervention Programs
Providing counselling and support services for children and young to address separation anxiety and health issues.
Educating parents on the importance of regular attendance and how to support their children’s school readiness.
Peer Support Systems
Implementing peer mentoring programs to support children and young people navigate social dynamics and academic pressures.
Peer Education Project Scotland | Mental Health Foundation
Strengthening anti-bullying / positive-relationship policies and programs to create a safer school environment.
Flexible Learning Options
Offering blended learning opportunities to accommodate work schedules and family responsibilities.
Young Carers – Dumfries & Galloway Carers Centre (dgalcarers.co.uk)
Blended learning | Learning at home | Parentzone Scotland | Parentzone Scotland (education.gov.scot)
Providing robust career guidance and planning services to help senior pupils see the relevance of their education to their future goals.
Post-16 opportunities | Curriculum in Scotland | Parentzone Scotland | Education Scotland
Health and Wellbeing Programs
Ensuring access to mental health resources and support for students of all ages.
Promoting healthy lifestyle choices to prevent health-related absences.
Health & Wellbeing in Dumfries and Galloway (glowscotland.org.uk)
By understanding the specific challenges associated with different age groups and implementing targeted strategies, schools in Dumfries and Galloway can better support regular attendance and enhance educational outcomes for all children and young people.
