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What are the current trends in school attendance in England?
Recent reports indicate a notable decline in school attendance across England, particularly on Fridays. Ofsted's chief inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, highlighted that this drop is linked to parents working from home. The overall absence rate is rising, especially among disadvantaged children, raising alarms about the educational experiences of these vulnerable groups.
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How has the pandemic affected educational experiences for vulnerable children?
The pandemic has exacerbated existing challenges for vulnerable children, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Many families are facing 'childcare deserts,' making it difficult for children to attend school regularly. The government's recent funding announcements aim to improve accessibility, but significant reforms in the SEND system are still needed to address these issues effectively.
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What is flexi-schooling and how is it changing education?
Flexi-schooling is an alternative education model that allows children to split their time between home and school. This approach has gained popularity during the pandemic as families seek more flexible arrangements. While it offers some benefits, there are concerns about its impact on the educational experiences of children, particularly those who may struggle with the transition between different learning environments.
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Why is attendance declining on Fridays?
Attendance on Fridays has been particularly low, as noted by Ofsted. This trend is attributed to parents working from home, which may lead to a more relaxed approach to school attendance. The decline raises questions about the long-term implications for children's education and the need for strategies to encourage consistent attendance throughout the week.
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What steps is the government taking to improve school attendance?
The government has announced funding aimed at improving accessibility in schools, particularly for disadvantaged children. However, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized that simply increasing funding is not enough; comprehensive reforms in the SEND system are essential to ensure that all children receive the support they need to thrive in their educational environments.