The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee of Islington Council met on Tuesday 07 January 2025 to discuss persistent absence from school and emotional-based school non-attendance. Key discussions included evidence from Place2Be on the impact of counselling on attendance, an update on the council's strategy to improve school attendance, and an introduction to the Emotional Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) protocol. The committee also reviewed the council's Executive Member Report and its work programme.

Persistent Absence and the Role of Place2Be

Place2Be, a children's mental health charity, presented evidence on the impact of their school-based counselling services on persistent absence. They highlighted that one-to-one counselling has the potential to reduce the likelihood of persistent absence by 18.5%, with significant improvements in mental health and classroom learning reported. Place2Be's work in Islington in 2023-24 supported 549 children and young people, with a 74% improvement rate reported by teachers and parents. The charity recommended a whole-school approach to mental health, improved local collaboration, and increased access to SEND and mental health provision in schools. Place2Be currently operates in five primary schools in Islington, with their services being a buy-in service for schools.

Improving School Attendance in Islington

An update was provided on the council's strategy to improve school attendance, which is a significant concern with 21% of pupils persistently absent. The council has undertaken visits to all 52 mainstream schools to understand barriers to attendance, which include parental attitudes, minor illnesses, parental mental health issues, and families facing housing challenges. The report highlighted that schools with effective attendance practices foster a welcoming environment, provide engaging learning opportunities, and have strong community links. Conversely, some schools were found to rely heavily on statutory action rather than a support first approach. The council is investing in attendance mentors, with Bright Futures set to deliver this service from Spring Term 2025, initially targeting pupils with 80-90% attendance. A borough-wide attendance summit is planned for May 2025.

Emotional Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) Protocol

The committee received an introduction to the Emotional Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) protocol, developed by an Islington working group. EBSNA is described as a behaviour, not a diagnosis, and focuses on the emotional barriers children face in attending school. The protocol identifies four main functions of non-attendance: avoiding uncomfortable feelings, avoiding stressful situations at school, reducing separation anxiety, or pursuing tangible rewards outside of school. The protocol outlines suggested interventions and key staff and services involved at different stages of need, from early intervention to specialist support. The importance of a whole school approach and a Team Around the Child was stressed, with a focus on adapting the learning environment and providing support tailored to individual needs. The council is also investing in capital works to create calm spaces within schools.

Executive Member Report and Work Programme

Councillor Michelline Safi-Ngongo, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Families, presented her report, outlining the vision for a Child-Friendly Islington by 2030. This vision encompasses four pillars: environmental sustainability, physical and mental wellbeing, community safety, and equitable access to opportunities. Key achievements highlighted included an Outstanding rating for the Youth Justice Team and positive inspection outcomes for children's social care services. The report also detailed progress in lifelong learning, skills, and enrichment, including improvements in school results and the launch of a school support programme. The committee also noted the council's work programme for 2024-25.