TRUANCY STATISTICS

That this House notes the latest truancy statistics identifying an increase in children classified as persistent truants; declines to rely on statistics that show an improvement overall in exam results; recognises that, while exam results are improving, there is a risk of an increased polarisation as a substantial number of pupils make less progress; and notes that a community-wide approach must be implemented by communicating with parents and increasing the number and responsibility of welfare officers in cases of persistent truancy.