Story perspectives

Record 175,000 Children Missing School Due to Absenteeism

3/26/2026

Center

Children's Attendance Crisis

The number of children in England missing over half of their school time has reached a record high, especially among those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Data from the Department for Education (DfE) shows that severe absenteeism affects over 175,000 students, despite overall attendance improvements.
A report from Bright Futures UK estimates that 279,000 children missed 20% of school due to long-term illness.
Experts warn that insufficient support can lead to mental health issues and school avoidance.
The DfE recognizes the need for reform in the SEND system to provide timely support for affected children.

Right

CCSD Tackles Absenteeism

The Clark County School District (CCSD) in Nevada reports 24% of students miss more than 10% of school days, indicating chronic absenteeism.
The Bright Futures Initiative oversees home visits to reconnect absent students, with more than 850 homes visited in February.
Attendance enforcement officers are involved and emphasize support rather than punishment.
Contributing factors include family issues, transportation barriers, and mental health challenges, which experts say affect classroom dynamics.

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Children's Attendance Crisis

The number of children in England missing over half of their school time has reached a record high, especially among those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Data from the Department for Education (DfE) shows that severe absenteeism affects over 175,000 students, despite overall attendance improvements.
A report from Bright Futures UK estimates that 279,000 children missed 20% of school due to long-term illness.
Experts warn that insufficient support can lead to mental health issues and school avoidance.
The DfE recognizes the need for reform in the SEND system to provide timely support for affected children.

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