Student absenteeism in European compulsory education : a comparative policy analysis

Abstract

This study provides a review of school absenteeism policies during the early millennium in four European states with different welfare governance. It also outlines and highlights aspects related to school absenteeism and compares these with Maltese policies. The Literature Review provides insight into the historical aspect of compulsory education and underlines the different European 'education regimes'. Furthermore, the second chapter dissects the latest local and foreign statistical data on school absenteeism. The selected qualitative research methodology of a comparative policy analysis, is outlined in the third chapter to provide the foundation for the succeeding chapters. Then, the fourth chapter presents a review of the education systems, legal systems, national strategies and in-school practices of the selected countries, namely; Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Sweden. Subsequently, the Analysis and Discussion chapter compares the findings of the review to Malta's school absenteeism policies. The strategies concerning the family, the community, and the school climate were found to be somewhat similar between Malta and the countries discussed. On the other hand, stark differences were identified in relation to classism and criminalisation of absentees in Malta. These disparities have implications for the structuring of future social and education policies. Hence, the study concludes by providing suggestions for policymakers and for further research, aimed at addressing the high rate of school absenteeism in Malta.