School attendance

The Education Welfare Team works with schools to identify families for early intervention support where pupils’ attendance patterns indicate they are at risk of becoming persistent absentees from school, and encourages schools to work closely with parents on all matters affecting attendance.

Education Welfare Officers work with parents to resolve attendance issues, offering both support and challenge to effect the required improvement. They take into account all aspects affecting attendance and liaise closely with other professionals, such as those dealing with special educational needs and emotional or behavioural issues. Education Welfare Officers usually meet parents but in some circumstances visit families at home. They make unannounced visits where there are safeguarding concerns in respect of children missing from school where no reason has been given.

Education Welfare Officers have an enforcement role and can take legal action against parents where necessary.

The School Exclusion Officer also sits within the team and is able to offer advice and support to schools and parents/carers about the school exclusion process.