This in from the council, Ed
Overall attendance levels across Island schools have improved by such a rapid rate that inspectors from Ofsted have visited the Isle of Wight to see what improvements have been carried out.
Latest figures show improvements at both primary and secondary levels for the 2013/14 academic year when compared to the same period for the previous year.
Attendance in the primary sector has risen by over 1.5 parentage points to over 96 per cent, while the secondary sector has seen an improvement by more than 2.5 percentage points with overall attendance up to over 94 per cent.
Tackling poor attendance
During the last year, the council has worked closely with schools, pupils and parents to tackle poor attendance levels.
Activities undertaken include following up any absences from school, identifying and supporting any children who may be at risk of becoming persistent absentees, and working with public health officers to help families on the management of illnesses.
Risk of fines a factor
Enforcing powers laid down by central government on taking time away from school during term time has also contributed to the figures.
Councillor Richard Priest, Executive member for children’s services said:
“It is very pleasing to see a large rise in the levels of attendance at schools across the Island.
“There has been a lot of hard work behind the scenes between various council departments and schools, and the results are now being realised.
“Ofsted inspectors were shown the methods we have employed here and we are hoping they will be used as an example of good practice to other local authorities faced with similar attendance issues.”
