Basildon Upper Academy Records England’s Highest Pupil Non-Attendance Rate

The Basildon Upper Academy in Basildon, Essex, has been identified as having the highest pupil non-attendance rate among state-run secondary schools in England, prompting a call for improvements from a local council leader. Data indicates a 15.4% rise in non-attendance at the academy compared to the previous year. Throughout the autumn and spring terms of 2023/24, unauthorised absences accounted for one in every six missed school sessions. Gavin Callaghan, a Labour councillor and leader of Basildon Council, expressed his concern, stating: “I am deeply concerned by the radio silence that has followed the news.” In correspondence addressed to Essex County Council, Mr. Callaghan advocated for a collaborative strategy to address the problem, suggesting measures like providing mentorship, mental health support, and extracurricular programs to encourage students to return to lessons. He further stated: “I write today to seek assurance there is a specific improvement plan in place, but also pledge my council’s support and energy in improving that story including educational attainment in Basildon in general.” The Local Democracy Reporting Service conveyed Mr. Callaghan’s proposal for a “task force” comprising local businesses, county education officials, community organizations, parents, and “most importantly the students themselves.” The councillor elaborated on its purpose, stating: “The goal of this task force will be to design and implement a comprehensive programme that addresses the root causes of truancy and builds pathways to higher achievement.” Tony Ball, a Conservative councillor and cabinet member for education, excellence, lifelong learning and employability for Essex County Council, noted that absence policies vary among schools. He clarified: “The school currently has a policy where an ‘unauthorised absence’ refers to any absence for any reason which has not been formally evidenced by parents. This is not the same as truancy. This policy is not the same for all trusts.” Mr. Ball affirmed that the council regards pupil attendance “very seriously” and has already held two meetings with the Basildon Upper Academy during the current half-term. He emphasized: “School is not optional. Every child has the right to access quality education and parents have a legal duty to ensure regular attendance.” Mr. Ball also stated that Basildon Council has not participated in, nor was it “fully informed” about, the ongoing work between Essex County Council, the school, and the Basildon Academies Trust, which operates the academy.