Blaenau Gwent Council is working with schools to launch a new campaign promoting the many benefits of attending school in a bid to boost attendance rates.
The #NotInMissOut campaign highlights the many benefits of going to school every day such as learning, fun activities, achieving great grades, pursuing excellent career prospects and spending time with friends.
Improving regular school attendance is a top priority for the Council. We’re exploring new ways of working with communities through the Blaenau Gwent Deal, where we want to work together to build fairer, healthier, stronger communities. Making sure children attend school is a fundamental way to building those communities.
The Council is committed to building bright futures for children and young people in Blaenau Gwent, supporting every child to thrive by building strong foundations for lifelong learning and development, and focusing on cognitive, emotional, social, and physical wellbeing. Attending school regularly is key to this, and the Council is asking families to work together to give every child and young person the opportunity to reach their full potential.
A real benefit of the federation between Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen councils is learning and sharing good practice. Torfaen has seen real improvements in attendance since starting its 'Not In Miss Out' campaign.
Councillor Sue Edmunds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said:
“I’m delighted to launch our new ‘Not In, Miss Out’ campaign, which highlights the many benefits of regular school attendance. School isn’t just about learning - it’s also about friendships, fun activities, and opportunities that help children thrive and achieve better life outcomes.
“While we understand that some absences, such as illness, are unavoidable, I’d urge parents to think carefully before keeping a child off school. Most minor illnesses mean children can still attend if they feel well enough. Wherever possible, please make medical appointments and take holidays outside of term time.
“A good routine and regular attendance can make a real difference to a child’s mental and physical wellbeing. We know some families face challenges, and we’re committed to working with them to provide advice and support. Please speak to your school or our Education Welfare Service if you need help.
“Improving attendance is a top priority for the Council, and together we can make sure every child has the best start in life.”
Pupils from Tredegar Comprehensive and St Mary’s Church in Wales Primary have featured in the campaign’s launch publicity.
Headteacher at Tredegar Comprehensive School, Charlotte Leaves said:
“We’re pleased to be supporting ‘Not In Miss Out’. Every day young people show up to school, they’re showing up for their future - because the lessons they miss today are opportunities they can’t get back tomorrow.”
As part of ‘Not In Miss Out’, we will be sharing details about how we are encouraging good attendance on our website and on our social media accounts.
Did you know, pupils who take off an average of half a day off a week will have an attendance rate of 90%? Those who take off an average of one day off a week will have an attendance rate of 80%.
More information about 'Not In Miss Out' and School Attendance here.
