Wexford Records Highest School Absence Rates in the Country Amid Growing Concerns

Wexford has recorded the highest level of school absences in the country, according to newly released figures, raising fresh concerns about attendance and student wellbeing across the county.

Primary schools in Wexford lost 10% of school days to absence, with nearly one in five children missing the equivalent of a full month of school. At post-primary level, the situation is even more stark, with students missing over 12% of school days, and more than 38% absent for a month or more in total.

Experts say the figures reflect a combination of factors, including the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as rising levels of anxiety and mental health challenges among young people.

Speaking on Morning Mix, Director of Tusla Education Support Service, Aine O’Keefe, said the patterns around attendance have shifted significantly in recent years. She noted that while issues such as illness, poor mental health and substance use have always contributed to absences, schools are now seeing a notable increase in days missed due to illness since the pandemic.

She also pointed to emerging research suggesting that attitudes towards school attendance may have changed, with less emphasis on consistent, daily attendance compared to pre-pandemic norms.

In response, Tusla, in partnership with the HSE, has launched the “Every School Day is a New Day” campaign, aimed at encouraging families and students to rebuild positive attendance habits. The initiative focuses on early intervention and working closely with schools to address attendance issues before they become long-term problems.

Ms O’Keefe added that alternative supports are available for students struggling to attend, including home tuition and online platforms such as iSchool, which help maintain a connection to education while also allowing time to address mental health needs.

The figures underline growing concern among education and support services that without early action, absenteeism could have lasting impacts on students’ learning and future opportunities.