16/12/2016
New Strategy Launches To Improve School Attendance
A 'Miss School = Miss Out' strategy has been introduced to improve pupils attendance at school.
Education Minister Peter Weir said the strategy will help young people who struggle to attend school on a regular basis.
The universal strategy formally brings together the policies which are already in place to ensure a consistent approach.
Minister Weir said: "Raising standards in education and improving the life chances of our children is one of my top priorities. Regular attendance at school maximises opportunities for young people by providing them with qualifications, experience and confidence for the best start in life.
"Whilst the majority of pupils do attend school regularly, there are some children and young people who struggle to attend for one reason or another. These young people need our help and support. 'Miss School=Miss Out' formally brings together policies into one place and focuses on strengthening key areas."
The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) has also issued a good practice guide to managing attendance.
Minister Weir continued: "The survey carried out by the ETI confirmed that there is no single action which offers a 'quick fix' for poor attendance. In reality, there needs to be holistic approach if we are to see an effective solution. We must work together if we are going to deliver the best possible opportunities for our young people. My Department will continue to work with key stakeholders to ensure the importance of regularly attending school is widely understood and promoted."
(CD)
Education Minister Peter Weir said the strategy will help young people who struggle to attend school on a regular basis.
The universal strategy formally brings together the policies which are already in place to ensure a consistent approach.
Minister Weir said: "Raising standards in education and improving the life chances of our children is one of my top priorities. Regular attendance at school maximises opportunities for young people by providing them with qualifications, experience and confidence for the best start in life.
"Whilst the majority of pupils do attend school regularly, there are some children and young people who struggle to attend for one reason or another. These young people need our help and support. 'Miss School=Miss Out' formally brings together policies into one place and focuses on strengthening key areas."
The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) has also issued a good practice guide to managing attendance.
Minister Weir continued: "The survey carried out by the ETI confirmed that there is no single action which offers a 'quick fix' for poor attendance. In reality, there needs to be holistic approach if we are to see an effective solution. We must work together if we are going to deliver the best possible opportunities for our young people. My Department will continue to work with key stakeholders to ensure the importance of regularly attending school is widely understood and promoted."
(CD)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A cloudy start to the day but staying mainly dry with some bright spells developing. A few light showers are possible over northern counties later in the afternoon. Maximum temperature 15 °C.Tonight:A largely dry evening with just the odd light shower around. Mainly dry with clear spells overnight but some showers will spread southwards later. Minimum temperature 5 °C.