New campaign to improve school attendance in Scotland

A new campaign that aims to improve school attendance has been launched in Scotland.

The TV, radio and multi media campaign deals with the root causes of absences and identifies ways to approach conversations about wellbeing that can help pupils to improve their attendance.

The campaign highlights new resources available on Parent Club, the Scottish Government’s information hub offering advice and support for parents and carers. 

The advice aims to support conversations between families, pupils and their teachers, to identify and help overcome the issues behind why a child may be reluctant to go to school. It complements existing guidance from Education Scotland to support schools and councils to improve attendance.

Education secretary for Scotland Jenny Gilruth said: "We know that too many young people are missing school for reasons that can be tough on them and their families. While the most recent figures show a slight increase in attendance, rates remain lower than they were before the pandemic.

“The underlying issues that drive poor attendance can be complex and unique – young people may struggle due to anxiety, additional support needs, or reluctance to attend – and this can leave parents and guardians feeling frustrated and powerless.

“There is no quick fix for improving school attendance – it is a journey that parents, schools, and pupils must to take together, and which the new resources on Parent Club can help them navigate.”