The ESRI (Economic and Social Research Institute) has recently evaluated data collected through Growing Up in Ireland and together with Tusla have looked at the impact of school absence on our young people. The following is a summary of the findings for your information:
The Importance of School Attendance: Key Findings & Recommendations for Parents
Key Findings
1. Even a Few Missed Days Matter:
- Missing just 1–3 days in early teens can lead to lower Leaving Certificate results. Attendance is crucial from all school years, not just during exams.
2. Chronic Absence = Lower Results:
- Students who miss 20+ days per year can score over 80 points lower in their Leaving Cert.
3. Impact on Future Education and Careers:
- Higher absenteeism makes students less likely to attend college or achieve a degree, affecting job opportunities and potential income.
4. Wellbeing and Mental Health:
- Students with high absence rates experience more stress and anxiety, lower life satisfaction, and decreased confidence and social connections.
5. Social Development:
- Missing school can result in fewer friendships, weaker social skills, and lower levels of trust and belonging.
6. Universal Impact:
- The negative effects of absenteeism are seen across all backgrounds, including students from advantaged families.
7. School Environment Matters:
- Students in schools with high overall absence rates tend to have poorer outcomes, even if their own attendance is good.
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Big Message from the Research:
· School absence is a significant driver of inequality later in life, with long-term and serious effects. Attendance issues have increased since COVID-19.