Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has written to the Leader of Monmouthshire County Council demanding urgent action to tackle soaring rates of pupil absenteeism in local schools.
New figures reveal a troubling picture across Wales, with unauthorised absences in secondary schools now nearly double what they were just five years ago.
Mr Fox is particularly concerned about the figures in Monmouthshire, where the local data shows the number of pupils missing school has more than doubled since 2018/19.
Peter has raised the alarm about a lack of effective local measures to get children back into the classroom and called for the Council Leader to set out how they intend to reverse the decline.
Local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has said:
“These figures are a disgrace — and drastic action needs to be taken. Despite countless warnings, far too many pupils are missing out on large parts if their education and nothing is being done about it.
Its clear that Monmouthshire County Council must do more to support families and schools in getting children back into classrooms. Every day missed is a missed opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
“I have asked the Leader of the Council to explain what’s being done — and what more can be done — to turn this around. Our young people deserve better.”
