What is the current rate of persistent school absence in the UK?

In 2024-25, the UK recorded a persistent absence rate of 18.14% among pupils, significantly higher than pre-pandemic figures.

How does absenteeism affect a student's future earnings?

Each day missed by persistently absent pupils is associated with a £650 loss in future lifetime earnings for UK students.

What are the main drivers of increased school absenteeism?

Digital distractions, AI, increased mental health issues, disillusionment with curricula, and the perception that school is losing relevance are key drivers.

Home / Education / AI and Distractions Fuel Global School Absenteeism

AI and Distractions Fuel Global School Absenteeism

17 Apr

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Summary

UK pupil persistent absence is 18.14% in 2024-25, up from 10.9% pre-pandemic.
US chronic absenteeism hit 23.5% in 2024-25, far exceeding prior levels.
Each missed day costs UK pupils £650 in future lifetime earnings.

AI and Distractions Fuel Global School Absenteeism

School absenteeism continues to be a significant global challenge, with rates failing to return to pre-pandemic levels. In the UK, persistent absence stood at 18.14% in 2024-25, a sharp increase from 10.9% in 2018-19. Similarly, the US reported 23.5% chronic absenteeism in the 2024-25 school year.

Experts highlight digital distractions and AI as contributing factors, alongside increased mental health issues among young people. The economic impact is substantial, with each missed day for persistently absent UK pupils linked to a £650 loss in future lifetime earnings. This trend disproportionately affects disadvantaged students.