School attendance in New Zealand

Correlations between the quantity of instruction received and potential opportunity to learn for students - and their subsequent level of competence and academic achievement are obvious.  Research has indicated that school attendance during year 11 is the most significant factor in student achievement in senior secondary school. (Smithfield Study [Hughes &al (1999)). Students themselves through repetitive school absences and truancy,  fail to realise their right to education – often unaware that they are abusing their own fundamental human rights in such an act. New Zealand schools and the New Zealand government should therefore be anxious to eradicate such a human rights issue in our education system.

New Zealand schools partaking in the Human Rights in Education Initiative are tackling the problem of truancy through rights-based education. International evidence from Hampshire UK strongly confirms that Human rights based education improves the class climate and motivational levels for both students and teachers, establishing a relationship of mutual respect for the right to education and an appreciation for the conditions necessary for effective learning.  In Hampshire U.K where human rights-based education is a county wide Initiative, improvements in student self esteem have led to more harmonious classrooms and more positive learning environments. Truancy rates have plummeted as students enjoy their schooling more and so become more likely to attend.

Source: Attendance, Absence and Truancy in New Zealand Schools in 2006 (Survey of the MoE)

http://www.educationcounts.govt.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/11883/Attendance06.pdf