Under 11s see sharp rise in truancy levels

Truancy amongst primary school pupils rose by 7% last year to its highest level since records began. New figures released today by the government show that truancy at primary school level rose from 0.43 to 0.46% of half day sessions. By contrast, truancy levels in secondary schools fell by 1%.

Most tellingly, the government's campaiagn to have parents reduce term-time absences appears to have failed. Authorised absences in primary schools rose by 6% - the first rise in levels for five years. Authorised absences include both sickness and holidays. '

The increase in the proportion of primary pupils truanting has to be nipped in the bud,' said Steve Sinnott of the National Union of Teachers. 'At this young age it is likely that parental connivance in truanting is a factor. Parents ... must not take their children out of school for holidays or shopping expeditions.'

• 4-9 Yrs: - Going To School And Growing Up

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