Bridget Phillipson tackles school absence crisis this term

Bridget Phillipson, the Labour education secretary, faces a significant challenge as she begins her term, particularly concerning the alarming rates of school absenteeism in England. Recent data indicates that 150,000 children were classified as 'severely absent' during the 2022-23 school year, missing half of their teaching time. This issue is exacerbated by various factors, including parents keeping children home for minor ailments or special occasions, as well as families opting for cheaper holidays during term time. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to the crisis, with many children having spent two years learning remotely, leading to a decline in their happiness at school. Reports show that only 60.5% of students expressed enjoyment in their school experience last year, a significant drop. Phillipson has emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming school environment to combat these trends. In response to the crisis, the government has increased fines for parents whose children miss school without authorization, raising £19 million in 2022-23. However, Phillipson acknowledges that persistent absenteeism is often linked to low-income families, where parents may struggle to manage their children's attendance. She is determined to address these issues while also advocating for educational reforms, including the recruitment of 6,500 additional teachers funded by a £1.5 billion revenue from taxing independent schools. Ultimately, Phillipson's approach combines stricter penalties with a focus on improving the school experience for children, as she believes that education is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty, a personal journey she has experienced herself.