The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) has published its analysis of school attendance data for 2010/11, revealing a fall in the rate of absenteeism during the period.

Data from the report showed that in primary schools, just over six per cent of total student days were lost through absenteeism in 2010/11, rising to eight per cent for post-primary schools - the lowest figures in five years.

The average primary school pupil missed 11 days of school in the 2010/11 school year, while post-primary students missed 13 days on average. Non-attendance figures were similar to those recorded in the UK and Northern Ireland.

Frances Fitzgerald, minister for children and youth affairs, said: "All those who work in the area of education and educational welfare can be heartened by the fact that their continued efforts have contributed to bringing about this positive change."

However, despite the improvements seen, attendance problems still persist in disadvantaged areas. The figures showed that 30 per cent of second-level students in poor areas were absent for 20 days or more in 2010/11.

The NEWB was established in 2000 as part of the government's Education (Welfare) Act in order to promote school attendance, participation and retention.

Written by Donal Walsh

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