There has been a significant decline in school attendance across primary, secondary, and special schools since the onset of the pandemic. This decline is categorized into two groups: persistent absences (attendance below 90% overall) and severe absences (attendance below 50%). In England, as of 2022, there were 850,000 children persistently absent and 120,000 severely absent.
Merton, generally has attendance rates above the national average (93.82% compared to 92.85% nationally), but special schools in the area have attendance rates below the national average.
Several factors contribute to this decline in attendance. One factor is changes in attitude, especially among middle-class families who have been more likely to take their children out of school. Another factor is a lower threshold for keeping children at home due to minor illnesses. Additionally, there is a concern about an increase in absences due to mental health symptoms.
To address mental health concerns, all schools can directly access CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) referrals without the need for a GP. Parents also have access to online mental health support for children and “off the record” services. Please find below useful links to mental health support services for children.
