40 Kilkenny schools take part in drive to combat low classroom attendances

A large number of schools across Kilkenny are set to take part in a national school attendance drive.

‘Every School Day Counts’ will see 40 local schools partner with 1,700 others across the country to promote the importance of attending class regularly.

The initiative will take place throughout November, when attendance traditionally dips.

Tusla Education Support Service (Tees) is encouraging the wider community to get involved to make every school day count in November and throughout the year.

Tusla chief executive Bernard Gloster said research shows that regular school attendance is vital in helping children get the best possible start in life.

“It lays the foundation for developing good social skills, building relationships and achieving success later in life. Children who attend school regularly are more likely to stay in school and achieve better educational outcomes,” said Mr Gloster.

Approximately 60,000 students miss school every day in Ireland. Tess national manager Maria Tobin said: “Regular school attendance is critical to a child’s success and parental involvement is the key to regular attendance. We know that every parent wants the best for their child, that is why  Tees, through its Home School Community Liaison Scheme, works directly with parents in their home, in the schools and communities to help find solutions to attendance issues.”