Study finds high level of absenteeism among poorer pupils

A study by the National Education Welfare Board has found that more than one-quarter of secondary school students from poorer areas miss at least one month of school every academic year.

Reports this morning said the study also found that 91% of all second-level pupils are absent for at least three weeks of each school year.

Every national and second-level school in the State was surveyed as part of the study. This morning's reports said members of the National Education Welfare Board were shocked and worried by the findings.