Attendance, exclusion and missing from education
Attendance and exclusions in schools
We publish guides to support schools with attendance and behaviour.
Guidance for schools:
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School attendance: guide for school staff (2025) provides a quick reference on national attendance policy
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Developing a positive whole school ethos and culture (2018) focuses on relationships, learning and behaviour and helps schools create supportive environments
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Included, engaged and involved – part 2 - exclusions (2017) provides advice on preventing and managing school exclusions and takes a supportive approach to behaviour issues
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Included, engaged and involved – part 1 - attendance (2019) provides advice on promoting and managing school attendance and offers strategies for reducing absences
For parents:
- School attendance FAQs on Parent Club
- School attendance: a guide for parents 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. We have set up a working group to review the guidance on school attendance.
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.
Read more: Guidance for local authorities on the Children Missing From Education (Scotland) service
For advice or queries about the service, contact: CMEScotland@gov.scot