Responding to new pupil absence statistics for the autumn and spring terms of the 2023/24 school year, which show absence is down year-on-year from 7.3% in 2022/23 to 6.9% in 2023/24, but remains above pre-pandemic levels, Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders' union NAHT, said: 

"Schools are working incredibly hard to boost attendance, and it is positive that these figures have improved overall year on year. However, the reasons for absence often lie beyond the school gates, and it is clear schools need more support to tackle unauthorised absence and the often deep-rooted issues facing children and families.

“These include everything from sickness and mental health problems, to poverty and other social challenges. Previous governments failed to properly fund vital services like social care and CAMHS, while important roles like education welfare officers were cut.

“As we look ahead to the budget, and next year’s spring spending review new investment in these services will be crucial in order to help schools further improve attendance and ensure pupils do not miss out on their education.”