Study Finds School Absences Spike on Fridays in England

Research suggests parents extending holidays and avoiding traffic contribute to higher Friday absences.

Researchers from the University of Bath found a 20% higher absence rate on Fridays compared to other weekdays across England.
The 'Friday effect' is more pronounced in areas with higher levels of deprivation and in weeks leading up to bank holidays or half-term breaks.
The study, published in the British Educational Research Journal, used daily attendance data from the 2022/2023 academic year.
Economists Jonathan James and Joanna Clifton-Sprigg suggest cultural shifts and financial pressures may also play a role in the trend.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has described the situation as an 'absence epidemic,' with increased fines for unauthorized absences now in effect.