SCOTTISH Borders Council is set to endorse a new attendance policy in schools to ensure pupils get the most out of their education.

Regular attendance is essential for children and young people’s academic attainment, achievement, social development, safety and well-being.

Attendance continues to be a challenge for schools both nationally and within the Borders, with a declining picture nationally since 2012/13 and persisting gaps for children impacted by poverty and care experience.

However, overall school attendance in the Borders for the academic session 2022/23 was 91.5 per cent, which is above the national average of 90.2 per cent and places the region eighth out of 32 Scottish local authorities.

The revision of the attendance policy was undertaken by a working group with representation from key stakeholders, including primary and secondary school leadership, home-school link workers, school attendance officers, educational psychology, inclusion and well-being, pastoral staff, and business support.

A crucial component of the revision was a consultation with children, young people, and families to gather their views and ideas on what helps with school attendance. The consultation involved 247 participants across 18 schools, with representation from those who struggle with attendance.

The policy aims to support schools to build an “inclusive and nurturing environment that encourages children and young people to attend school willingly”.

It makes a commitment to maintaining open communication between schools, parents/carers, and children and young people regarding attendance matters.

And it addresses the potential impact of external factors on attendance, such as transportation issues, health concerns, or socio-economic challenges.

Members of the council's Education Sub-Committee will be recommended to endorse the new policy when they meet on Tuesday (April 23).