FOI Request - Long Term School Absences
Request 101004011690
1. While figures for persistently absent pupils (10%+) are published, I’m looking for details on the following:
a) How many children are absent from school 20%+
b) 50%+
c) How many are on reduced timetables
For all three questions, please provide a breakdown of figures from academic year 2019-20 until 2025-26 so far. Please include primary and secondary schools.
Response 06-07-2026
1. a) & b)
| Attendance | 2019/20 | 2020/2021 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | 2025/26 | |
| Primary | <80% | 284 | 209 | 422 | 397 | 407 | 348 | 348 |
| <50% | 23 | 31 | 48 | 45 | 66 | 50 | 44 | |
| Secondary | <80% | 582 | 504 | 815 | 824 | 914 | 983 | 829 |
| <50% | 132 | 112 | 176 | 191 | 217 | 199 | 166 |
c) In order to collate the information requested we would have to read through each pupil file individually. This task would cost the Council in excess of £600 of staff time. In accordance with Section 12 of the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (excessive cost), we are therefore unable to comply with this part of the request.