Overview
- Nearly half of ninth-graders missed at least 11 school days last year, including 23% at 11–20 days, 17% at 21–40 days, and 8% with more than 40 days.
- Seven percent did not attain the first general school-leaving certificate, a group largely tied to grave or massive absence, and the figures include excused and unexcused days.
- The analysis draws on records for 16,222 students at 186 schools, plus surveys of 5,500 pupils and 513 teachers across 54 schools covering multiple school types.
- Authorities stress recording absence from day one, teacher contact with parents, clear procedures, counselling and networking, with distinct responses for school anxiety versus truancy.
- The €691,000 state-funded research continues to 2027 with a practice transfer at two schools yet to be named, and lawmakers urge practical protocols and sustained resources.