UK Education Chief Targets Rising School Absences on Fridays
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan highlights increased absenteeism, particularly on Fridays, attributing the trend to parents working from home and extended weekends.
- Recent data shows a 20% jump in Friday absences compared to other weekdays, with unauthorized holidays up by 25% since pre-pandemic.
- Around 150,000 students are now severely absent, a significant rise from previous years.
- Keegan emphasizes restoring pre-pandemic attendance norms, proposing fines and attendance hubs as solutions.
- Critics argue that broader social issues and insufficient resources in schools contribute to ongoing attendance challenges.
- The rise in mental health issues among youth is also seen as a factor affecting school attendance.
Evening Standard 
The Telegraph 