This literature review highlights that chronic illness is a major driver of school absence and can have lasting effects on students’ learning, wellbeing and educational outcomes. It found that children with chronic health conditions miss significantly more school than their peers, and that frequent absences can contribute to lower academic achievement, reduced engagement and difficulties staying connected to school. The review also shows that students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often face additional barriers that can make these challenges even greater.
The authors call for stronger support for students with chronic illness through better attendance strategies, improved collaboration between health and education, and school programs that recognise the impact of illness on learning. They also highlight the need for more research to guide effective policies and practices that help students remain connected to their education during periods of illness.
Read the full article here.
Keywords:
- Chronic illness
- School attendance
- Student absence
- Educational equity
- School engagement
