The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped education in ways we are still trying to understand. One of the most pressing challenges is the rise in school refusal, with children and parents struggling to re-establish regular attendance routines. But what’s really driving this trend? Are we seeing the effects of pandemic-induced changes in family dynamics, or does this reveal deeper flaws within our education system?
The Impact of COVID-19 on Attendance and Family Dynamics
During the pandemic, families grew accustomed to having their children at home. Parents became more involved in their children’s daily lives, fostering stronger bonds but also, in some cases, inadvertently creating co-dependency. For many children, home became a safe haven, free from the pressures of school life. The return to classrooms brought with it heightened anxieties, fear of large groups, and a longing for the comfort of home.
This raises an important question: do parents fully grasp the importance of regular school attendance? Education is far more than academic achievement; it’s about social development, resilience, and preparing children for the challenges of adult life. However, for some families, the pandemic normalised a lifestyle where education took a backseat to immediate comfort and safety.
The Role of Schools in Addressing Attendance Issues
Schools now face the monumental task of rebuilding trust and re-engaging both students and parents. One significant challenge is the size of classes. Many students, especially those who thrived in smaller groups during lockdown, now find it difficult to cope with larger classroom settings.
For students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the hurdles are even greater. Mainstream classrooms often lack the tailored support that these students need, leaving them feeling frustrated and excluded. In some schools, the number of SEND students is beginning to outnumber their mainstream peers, putting additional strain on resources.
So, what can schools do to encourage students back into classrooms? Smaller class sizes, personalised support, and a focus on mental health and well-being are essential. However, perhaps the most important step is rethinking what education should look like in a post-pandemic world.