Redditch schools working to improve student attendance

Worcestershire County Council has said that since the disruption caused by the pandemic, school attendance across the country has suffered meaning that a higher proportion of children nationally and locally are not attending school on a regular basis.

The new Redditch Re-engaged Project is designed to support schools and families to improve school attendance for all children and to help remove any barriers they may face.

Future developments include working in partnership with GP’s and healthcare professionals to share a more cohesive approach to working with children and families.

A number of schools are working together to improve attendance as part of the project (Image: WCC)

Adrian Ward, CEO of Bordesley Multi Academy Trust said: “I am delighted that a number of Academy Trusts have agreed to come together with Worcestershire Children First to work collaboratively to support families in improving school attendance.”

Cabinet member with responsibility for education at Worcestershire County Council, councillor Tracey Onslow said: “Regular attendance provides an environment for children to develop social skills, build friendships, and learn essential life lessons through interaction with classmates and teachers. Of course, some situations may require authorised absences. In these cases, whether due to illness, specific bespoke needs or other exceptional circumstances, we encourage parents and carers to work with their child’s school to arrange the necessary support and reasonable adjustments.

“We appreciate that some pupils may find it harder than others to attend school which is why we’re working closely with education settings across the county, to support pupils and parents and, where possible, help remove any barriers to attendance.”