Attendance at primary schools in Ceredigion has reached a remarkable level, with recent figures indicating a rate of 93.3 percent for the 2024/25 academic year. This achievement positions Ceredigion as the local authority with the highest primary school attendance in Wales, reflecting a concerted effort to improve student engagement across the region.
According to the latest statistics, the overall percentage of half-day sessions missed by primary school-aged pupils in Wales has decreased to 7.4 percent in 2024/25, down from 7.9 percent in the previous year. The average attendance figure for Wales stands at 92.6 percent, with Monmouthshire leading at 93.9 percent.
The data also highlights positive trends among primary pupils eligible for free school meals. The percentage of half-day sessions missed by this group has now fallen to 11.8 percent, compared to 12.1 percent in 2023/24. Additionally, persistent absences for these pupils have decreased, from 46.9 percent last year to 44.7 percent this year.
Government Commitment to Attendance Improvement
Lynne Neagle, the Cabinet Secretary for Education, expressed her satisfaction with the progress made in tackling school absences across Wales. She noted, “It is fantastic that we are making progress in tackling school absences, and this improvement reflects our sustained focus on attendance and the investments we’ve made.”
Neagle emphasized the need for continued efforts to raise school attendance as a top priority. She acknowledged the various factors contributing to learner absence and stressed the importance of building effective relationships between schools and families. “There is a lot of good practice already happening across Wales,” she added.
To further support this initiative, the Welsh government has allocated £7 million in funding this year aimed at helping children re-engage with school. Neagle stated, “We are already seeing the benefits of this investment.”
Future Outlook for Ceredigion Schools
As Ceredigion maintains its focus on improving school attendance, the collaboration between schools, local authorities, and other partners will be vital. Addressing barriers that prevent children from attending school regularly remains essential. The positive trends in attendance rates suggest that the current strategies are yielding results, fostering an environment where students can thrive.
The commitment to enhancing educational outcomes in Ceredigion serves as a model for other regions in Wales and beyond. With sustained efforts and investments, the goal of maximizing school attendance appears increasingly attainable.
