Scottish Government
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Guide for parents

A guide to make parents aware of their responsibilities when it comes to their child's attendance at school was published yesterday.

It was highlighted by Schools Minister Keith Brown during a visit to Alloa Academy to look at work to improve attendance.

It comes as statistics show more pupils have a 100 per cent attendance record - up to 47,400 this year from 35,000 in 2007-2008.

The annual attendance and absence statistics also show an increase of 2.4 percentage points for pupils with attendance of 90 per cent or more. Overall pupil attendance remains stable at 93.3 per cent, virtually unchanged from 93.2 per cent in 2007/08.

Mr Brown said:

"I want children and young people in Scotland to enjoy school and enjoy learning. If young people are to reap the benefits of their education and get the skills they need for life and work, they need to be in school.

"It is great news that more pupils are getting 10 out of 10 for attendance. This shows that progress is being made. However, with overall attendance remaining relatively stable, we know more needs to be done.

"That's why we are publishing this booklet which will help make sure all parents are aware of their responsibilities around their child's attendance at school.

"It also sets out the help and support parents and pupils can receive when there is a problem. If parents and schools work together, I believe progress can be made.

"I hope this information will help parents take an active role in making sure their child goes to school and benefits from the brighter future education can bring."

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