A shocking new report from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and The Difference has highlighted a 67% surge in school absences in the UK, drawing attention to a growing crisis of lost learning. The report, which brings together insights from over 100 educators, students, parent groups, and charities, outlines a comprehensive plan to address the rising tide of absences, exclusions, and challenges in special educational needs (SEN).
Key Findings:
- Absences up by 67%: The analysis reveals that in the autumn term of 2023/24, UK students missed 11.5 million school days, a stark rise from 6.8 million in 2019/20. This marks a 67% increase in lost learning.
- Hidden Moves: For every permanent exclusion, 10 children experience “invisible” moves, such as informal school transfers and the illegal practice of off-rolling. Alarmingly, one-third of these children disappear into an “unknown destination,” leaving authorities unaware of their educational status.
- Widening Gaps: Vulnerable children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, are disproportionately impacted by these trends. The special educational needs crisis has worsened, with a 140% increase in high-level SEN support plans since 2015.
The 10-Point Plan for Reform: The report advocates for a bold set of reforms, including:
- £850 million investment over five years to improve inclusion for 500,000 children, reduce lost learning, and improve outcomes.
- Legislation to monitor school moves, ensuring authorities know where all children are educated.
- School admission policy reforms to better reflect local community needs and provide disadvantaged children with more opportunities.
- Modeling indicates that this funding would save the government money in the long term by reducing the need for costly Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Key Support and Calls to Action:
- Efua Poku-Amanfo from IPPR stated, “Children can’t learn if they are not in school or are unaccounted for. Without urgent action, we risk failing the most disadvantaged children.”
- Kiran Gill, CEO of The Difference, echoed these concerns: “Our education system is failing the children who need it most. The rising mental health issues and youth violence are a direct result of this.”
- Cllr Arooj Shah, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children and Young People Board, called for Children Not in School registers and additional funding to help local councils ensure every child is receiving a suitable education.
The Way Forward: The report emphasizes that more children must return to classrooms to improve academic performance, reduce mental health challenges, and support future economic growth. The proposed reforms aim to tackle the root causes of the crisis and ensure that every child receives a safe, inclusive, and effective education.
In conclusion, as education leaders and charities unite behind this urgent call for change, the onus is now on the government to act swiftly and decisively to reverse the trend of lost learning before it affects an entire generation.
