Included, Engaged and Involved Part 1: Improving Attendance in Scotland's Schools

Ministerial Foreward

Attending school regularly is vital for a child’s development. It is also a legal requirement of parents and carers in Scotland. We know that, post-pandemic, attendance has been challenging for a wider cohort of pupils than previously, for a variety of different reasons. We also know that being physically present in school improves a young person’s attainment, wellbeing and their longer-term outcomes in life.

The national guidance on school attendance - Included, Engaged and Involved, Part 1 - published over 7 years ago. Since that time children have experienced significant disruption to their learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, and uncertainty about their safety and wellbeing, and that of their families. Many are growing up in families feeling real strain as a result of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

The effect of these challenges emerge in our schools in different ways. For some, poverty has deepened and barriers grown, making it harder to go to and engage positively with school. Recent improvements in attendance are encouraging, but efforts need to be intensified if we are to drive further improvement.

Working together is key to ensure our children receive the support that they need to attend and be actively engaged in their learning. The reasons for non-attendance are varied and complex and we must understand all the factors that are involved to address them more effectively.

This refreshed guidance reiterates the importance of an inclusive and supportive whole-school culture, recognising that children and young people are more likely to attend school when they feel safe and are connected to the wider school community. It also recognises that families are more likely to support regular attendance when they feel valued and involved as equal partners in their child’s school life.

While the overall position and principles of the guidance remain unchanged, this refresh responds to new and evolving challenges to attendance that have emerged since the last update. It draws on evidence, good practice and insights into what works to support schools and partners to better understand and address barriers to attendance and engagement and identify and deliver approaches that are responsive to the needs and circumstances of all children and young people. It is intended to complement Education Scotland’s continued collaborative work with all local authorities on their work to improve attendance.

In updating this guidance, the Scottish Government also heard directly from children and parents and carers. Their input has ensured the guidance reflects current challenges and provides a supportive and practical resource for teachers and staff. The guidance aims to support children attending school regularly to fulfil their potential, so that they can succeed later in life.

Jenny Gilruth, MSP

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills