Attendance rates at primary schools in Ceredigion have reached impressive levels, with the latest statistics indicating that in the 2024/25 academic year, attendance among primary-aged pupils rose to 93.3 percent. This marks the second highest attendance rate in Wales, reflecting a positive trend in school engagement across the region.
Recent data shows that the overall percentage of half-day sessions missed by primary school-aged students in Wales has decreased to 7.4 percent for the 2024/25 school year, down from 7.9 percent in the previous year. The average attendance figure for Wales stands at 92.6 percent, with Monmouthshire leading with an attendance rate of 93.9 percent.
Improvement Among Disadvantaged Pupils
The figures also highlight a significant improvement in attendance rates for primary pupils eligible for free school meals. The percentage of half-day sessions missed by this group decreased to 11.8 percent in 2024/25, a modest decline from 12.1 percent the prior year. Additionally, persistent absences for primary pupils in this category fell to 44.7 percent, down from 46.9 percent in 2023/24.
Lynne Neagle, the Cabinet Secretary for Education, expressed optimism regarding these advancements. “It is fantastic that we are making progress in tackling school absences,” she stated. “This improvement reflects our sustained focus on attendance and the investments we’ve made.”
Neagle emphasized the importance of addressing the various factors that contribute to learner absence. “Effective relationships between schools and families are essential, and there is a lot of good practice already happening across Wales. We will continue to work with schools, local authorities, and other partners to address the barriers that prevent children from attending school regularly.”
To support these efforts, the Welsh Government has allocated £7 million this year specifically aimed at helping children re-engage with their education. Neagle noted that the positive effects of this investment are already becoming apparent.
As Ceredigion continues to improve its primary school attendance rates, the focus remains on maintaining momentum. The commitment from education officials to enhance student attendance highlights a proactive approach to ensuring that all children have the opportunity for consistent education.
