When a Pupil Is Struggling to Attend School: What Can Schools Do?

When a pupil’s attendance starts to fall, the attendance figure is only part of the picture.

There may be anxiety behind the absence. SEND needs that are not being fully met. EBSA, school avoidance, difficulties with the school environment or a growing loss of confidence. For some pupils, they may want to learn but simply be finding it increasingly difficult to access school.

The Department for Education’s attendance guidance places emphasis on understanding the barriers behind absence, identifying concerns early and working with pupils and families to provide appropriate support. 

So what can schools do?

The first step is understanding what is making attendance difficult.

That means looking beyond the attendance percentage and considering what the pupil is experiencing. Speaking with the pupil and family, looking for patterns in attendance and engagement, and working with the SENCO and wider team to build a clearer picture.

Depending on the individual circumstances, schools may consider adjustments, additional SEND support, flexible arrangements or alternative provision.

When mainstream education isn’t working

For some pupils, remaining in the same environment may not be viable.

Gaia Learning works with schools and MATs to provide specialist online alternative provision for learners who are struggling to access education. Our 1:1 and small-group learning is designed around individual needs and can support learners with SEND, anxiety, EBSA and other barriers to engagement. We work collaboratively with schools and families, with reintegration considered where appropriate.

Understanding whether support is working

It is also important to know what is happening after support is put in place.

Bloom, our connected learner support platform, brings learning, support, attendance, engagement and progress together, enabling schools to see what is happening around each learner and evidence the support being provided.

The question is not simply:

“How do we improve attendance?”

It is:

“What is stopping this pupil from accessing education, and what support could help?”

For schools supporting a learner who is struggling to attend, Gaia Learning can help you explore the next step.

Speak to Gaia Learning →