The OECD’s Every Day Counts report highlights that school attendance problems are driven by a complex mix of health, family, school and community factors, but one message is clear: illness is one of the biggest reasons students miss school.

Drawing on international evidence, the report identifies physical illness as the most commonly reported reason for school absence across OECD countries, with chronic health conditions, fatigue and unmet health needs all increasing the risk of ongoing absence. It also notes that illness-related absences have risen significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rather than focusing only on attendance targets, the report calls for schools and governments to address the underlying causes of absence through coordinated health, education and wellbeing supports. It highlights the importance of strong school relationships, early intervention, family partnerships and integrated services to help students facing health-related barriers stay connected to learning.

Read the full report here.