Truancy rates are decreasing in the London Borough of Merton and are now
believed to be below the national average.

The latest attendance figures show 94.6% of primary school students in Merton are turning up for class compared to the estimated national figure of 94.2%.

The situation is also improving in secondary schools, with attendance at 92.3%.

The figures show a 0.4% increase for primary school and a 0.1% increase at the secondary level, compared to the same period last year.

Cabinet member for School Standards and Youth Engagement, Councillor Oonagh Moulton, says: “The low truancy rates reflect the commitment of students, parents and staff in the London Borough of Merton. They are particularly encouraging given the Government’s plan to order students back to class if they’re not turning up.”