WE all know that education is a vital part of ensuring children get the best possible start in life. But as well as making friends and gaining knowledge, going to school is a hugely important part of safeguarding.

If children miss school, their teachers are less able to spot signs that something might be wrong. Missing school could also be an indicator of broader child protection concerns. Since the pandemic the number of children missing 10per cent or more of possible school sessions has risen, with around 21per cent persistently absent from schools in England in in 2022/23.

There are many reasons a child might miss school, some children are more likely to be absent than others. Those with special educational needs, those with mental health problems and young carers, for example.

It’s important not to be judgemental about those who might be persistently absent from school, but we must recognise that absences have safeguarding implications. Poor attendance could be a sign of abuse or neglect.

School staff see young people every day, so it becomes easier for them to spot signs that something might not be okay. They can offer early support and potentially stop concerns from escalating. If children are absent, that protective function simply isn’t there.

The NSPCC’s Young People’s Board For Change helps us share the thoughts of young people with those who can make a difference. One board member told us they missed school through illness, stress and undiagnosed needs. They feared the ease with which children can become stressed and overwhelmed by school pressures was more common than adults realised. Our Childline counsellors often speak to young people who are skipping school or have worries about issues in class. Sometimes these are health-related, but often our counsellors hear about bullying, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues that impact school performance. It can be easy to take for granted that schools are a safe place for children, offering stability and routine which might not be common at home. Many children our counsellors speak to describe themselves as socially isolated, school is an opportunity to make best use of their formative years and develop social skills.

We need to ensure children know where to go for help. That could mean speaking to a family member or teacher, but our Childline counsellors are available 24 hours a day to offer confidential support. We say to schools check in with young people you might be worried about and if concerned, speak up about them. Your voice could be the one that helps a child get the help they need, and it could be as simple as making a call to the NSPCC Helpline.