Pupil wellbeing and increased persistent absenteeism: An investigation

NFER have been awarded grant funding by the Nuffield Foundation to explore the relationship between pupil wellbeing and persistent absence in secondary schools in England.

  • To explore the current patterns/trajectories of absence among English secondary school pupils, how these have changed since the pandemic, and the likelihood of pupils reverting to normal attendance.
  • To investigate the extent to which decreased pupil wellbeing is driving increases in absence relative to other factors.
  • To Identify potential solutions based on national and international insights to support absent pupils to re-engage with secondary school.

Information about who can take part in the research will be confirmed in due course.

This research project will feature a rapid evidence review and international literature review, case study interviews interviews and focus groups with school staff, pupils and parents/carers and analysis of data from the ECHILD resource.

Information about what participating in the research will involve will be confirmed in due course.

If you would like any additional information or have any further questions, please contact, Dr Emma Moore, NFER Senior Research Manager.