Record 11.5 Million Lost Days of Learning in UK Schools

Recent reports reveal a significant increase in school absenteeism in England, with over 11.5 million lost days of education recorded in the 2023/24 academic year, a nearly 70% rise since before the pandemic. The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) highlighted that vulnerable children are disproportionately affected, with many facing 'invisible' exclusions and unaccounted departures from education. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has labeled the situation a 'truancy epidemic' and emphasized the critical role of parental responsibility in ensuring children attend school. Additionally, there has been a notable rise in home-schooling, exacerbating concerns about educational outcomes. The report calls for urgent government intervention, including legislation to monitor children's educational status more effectively. The overall attendance rate, while improved from previous years, remains above pre-pandemic levels, indicating ongoing challenges in the education system.