Attendance, exclusion and missing from education

Attendance and exclusions in schools

We publish guides to support schools with attendance and behaviour.

Guidance for schools:

School attendance: guide for school staff (2025) provides a quick reference on national attendance policy
Developing a positive whole school ethos and culture (2018) focuses on relationships, learning and behaviour and helps schools create supportive environments
Included, engaged and involved – part 2 - exclusions (2017) provides advice on preventing and managing school exclusions and takes a supportive approach to behaviour issues
Included, engaged and involved – part 1 - improving attendance in Scotland's schools (2026) provides advice on promoting and managing school attendance and offers strategies for reducing absences

For parents:

School attendance FAQs on Parent Club
guidance from Parent Club about talking to your child’s school about attendance explains parents' responsibilities regarding attendance and outlines support available when attendance becomes a concern

All these guides work together to support a positive school environment where all pupils can learn effectively.

Children missing from education

Children missing from education are those of compulsory school age who are not on a school roll or receiving alternative education (home, private, or alternative provision).

A child who is enrolled but hasn't attended school for up to four weeks (or less if there are welfare concerns) may also be considered missing from education.

The child's safety is paramount. When there is concern a child might be at risk, following local child protection procedures is essential.

Children Missing from Education (Scotland) Service

This service functions solely as an intermediary between local authorities and SEEMiS for conducting national pupil searches in Scotland when necessary. This limited role reflects both the sensitive nature of missing children cases and data protection requirements.

For advice or queries about the service, contact: CMEScotland@gov.scot

Information