Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, September 26, 2024
Data released today, September 26, 2024, by Associate Education Minister David Seymour indicates an increase in school attendance during Term 2 of 2024.
According to the report, 53.2% of students were recorded as regularly attending school, which reflects a 6.1% increase from the same period in 2023.
The improvement was more pronounced among primary school students, whose regular attendance increased by 7% points to 56.8%. Secondary student attendance also improved, rising by 4.5% points to 46.7%. Attendance increased across all ethnic groups, year levels, and schools with different equity index classifications.
“Attending school is the first step towards achieving positive education outcomes,” Mr Seymour said, highlighting the link between regular school attendance and long-term benefits, such as improved health, income, job stability, and community participation.
Regional data shows that South and South-West Auckland, along with Tai Tokerau, experienced the most significant gains, with attendance rising by 10.3% and 9.4%, respectively.
Government Sets Long-Term Target
Students are classified as regularly attending school if they are present for more than 90% of the term. The government’s long-term target is to have 80% of students meeting this criterion by 2030.
Mr Seymour pointed out that missing just one week of school per term can result in the equivalent of a year of lost schooling by age 16. He emphasised the importance of consistent attendance for long-term student success.
While attendance rates have increased, winter illnesses were cited as a contributing factor in keeping attendance below pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, nearly 58% of students were regularly attending school.
New Measures to Address Attendance Challenges
Mr Seymour also announced the launch of Phase Two of the Attendance Action Plan, a set of initiatives aimed at addressing barriers to attendance. These measures are designed to involve schools, the Ministry of Education, government agencies, and families in efforts to improve attendance rates.
“If the truancy crisis is not addressed, there could be long-term social and economic impacts for those who missed out on education during their formative years,” he said, underscoring the potential consequences of low school attendance.
Public Response
Reactions to the new data and initiatives have been varied. Sarah Munro, a parent from Auckland, shared her thoughts, saying, “It is good to see attendance is improving, but illnesses like the flu have definitely been an issue. Many parents are doing their best to keep their children healthy and in school.”
As the government works to implement the next phase of its action plan, efforts will continue to ensure that attendance remains a priority and that students are given the best opportunities for future success.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
