Fall in school attendance worse amongst poorer pupils

Over half of all pupils eligible for free school meals were persistently absent from school in Wales last year, figures published today show.

In the 2025-26 academic year, 51.3% of pupils eligible for free school meals were persistently absent from school, up from 49% in 2024-25.

Last year, school attendance was worse amongst older year groups, with year 11 attendance at 86.4% compared to 92.6% in year 3.

Sam Rowlands MS, Shadow Minister for Education, said:

“These figures are deeply worrying. Not only is overall school attendance falling, but the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers is widening, with more than half of pupils eligible for free school meals now persistently absent from school.

“It is particularly concerning that attendance is lowest amongst Year 11 pupils, who are preparing for GCSEs at one of the most important stages of their education. Every day missed is a missed opportunity to learn and achieve.

“After 27 years of Labour and now Plaid Cymru in government, too many children are being let down. The Welsh Government needs a clear strategy to improve attendance, tackle persistent absence and ensure every child has the best possible chance to succeed.”