A new report highlights bullying and anxiety as key factors behind school absences in Bristol. The findings, from a Bristol City Council task group, focus on children aged 11 to 14.
The report notes that school attendance has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, with a rise in persistent absences. It links these trends to mental health issues and bullying.
Attendance drops at key transition points
Bristol’s attendance has improved slightly in recent years but still ranks 149th out of all local authorities, with secondary attendance at 90%, below the national average of 92.4%.
The report identifies critical transition periods, such as moving from Year Six to Year Seven and from Year Seven to Year Eight, where attendance often declines. During these transitions, students face challenges like handling new timetables, larger schools, and social difficulties, including bullying.
Young people call for better mental health support
A 2025 investigation by Barnardo’s in Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire found that young people often feel teachers are too overworked to provide adequate support. Many students are unaware of the help available.
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One student shared their experience with a school counsellor, describing the interaction as “awkward” and unhelpful. They credited their head of house for providing the support needed to continue attending school.
The Barnardo’s report emphasizes the need for more mental health workers and educational psychologists in schools to offer early intervention and general support.
The findings will be discussed by the children and young people policy committee, with potential implications for future support strategies in Bristol schools.
Regional Variations in Attendance Rates
Last year, secondary attendance stood at 95.7% in Westbury-on-Trym and Redland, compared to 88.2% in Hartcliffe and Withywood.
Personal Experiences and Support Systems
The committee’s discussion will take place on Thursday, marking a critical step toward addressing the complex issues of bullying, anxiety, and school absences in Bristol.