West Berkshire is grappling with rising rates of persistent school absenteeism, surpassing those of nearby Reading. Although the overall attendance rate remains stable at 94.82% for the 2024/25 academic year, the council has raised concerns about a significant number of students missing substantial amounts of school. This figure is slightly above the national average of 94%, but persistent absence in West Berkshire stands at 12.65%, closely mirroring rates in surrounding areas such as Reading (12.3%), Bracknell (12.4%), and Buckinghamshire (12.2%).
The situation has been compounded by a slight increase in unauthorized absence rates. West Berkshire’s rate rose from 1.05% to 1.2%, reflecting a trend observed nationally and regionally. The council attributes these increases to a range of challenges, including student disengagement, unmet needs, and family pressures.
Commitment to Improvement
In response to these rising figures, West Berkshire Council released its latest school attendance strategy, emphasizing a proactive approach to supporting students. “West Berkshire’s performance is encouraging – but we’re not complacent,” the council stated. The strategy aims to raise aspirations, remove barriers, and ensure every child receives the support necessary to attend school, thrive academically, and succeed.
The council is closely monitoring attendance patterns to act swiftly when students begin to miss school. They emphasize that early intervention leads to better outcomes. “We know emotional wellbeing affects attendance,” the council noted, highlighting the importance of providing children with trusted adults and safe spaces for open communication.
Personalized Support for Students
The new strategy focuses on creating personalized plans tailored to each child’s needs. This approach includes listening to children and ensuring they have the necessary support systems in place. The council plans to utilize data and hold school meetings to identify concerns early, allowing for timely intervention.
Additionally, West Berkshire aims to assist families with practical challenges that can affect attendance, such as morning routines, uniform requirements, and transportation issues. The council is also addressing mental health and family dynamics that may contribute to absenteeism.
By fostering strong relationships with families, West Berkshire is committed to enhancing children’s attendance and engagement. Through these collaborative efforts, the council hopes to create an inclusive educational environment where every learner feels valued and supported.
