Rhyl High School in Denbighshire, Wales is taking measures to address the problem of absenteeism in the area. Data reveals that one in six secondary pupils in Wales is more frequently absent, which some are calling a “national crisis”. In response, Rhyl High School has reduced school days, created a food bank and is sending staff to visit the homes of students who are struggling to attend school.
The deputy head teacher at Rhyl, Ceri Ellis, believes that mental health issues are causing more students to become absent. The school has introduced nine staff members to provide additional support to students who are struggling. Ellis estimates that nearly a third of students receive support services regularly.
Claire Armitstead, the head teacher, says that the school has also been funding its own food bank. They are also visiting the homes of students with poor attendance records, making it easier for the children to attend classes. If a child is struggling with a full day of classes, the school will gradually work with them until they become comfortable with a full day.
The Welsh government has set up a group to examine the high rates of absenteeism among students. Kai, a year 11 pupil at Rhyl, believes that some pupils struggled to adjust to being back in the classroom after months of remote learning. The work was harder, and some pupils felt as though it was too difficult to handle.
Eithne Hughes, director of Association of School, and College Leaders Cymru, believes that schools need adequate funding to tackle absenteeism. Education Minister Jeremy Miles plans to set up a group to address the issue, explaining: “A priority of the group will be to look in depth into the reasons behind non-attendance and bring to bear their expertise to identify actions that can bring about sustained improvements”
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