News and Events

Through the doors: Listening to young people to improve school attendance

Our Education Department has been working with The Youth Work Lab and Promo Cymru on Through the Doors, a research project designed to better understand school attendance through the voices and lived experiences of children and young people.

The research project involved more than 200 young people from across Carmarthenshire, including those attending mainstream schools, alternative provision and those whose attendance has been less consistent. Rather than focusing only on attendance data, the research explored what helps young people engage with school and what can make attending more difficult. 

What did young people tell us?

The findings show that attendance is closely linked to how children and young people experience school.
Young people spoke about the importance of:

• • Feeling welcomed, valued and respected
• • Having trusted adults who listen and understand
• • Positive friendships and a sense of belonging
• • Environments where they feel safe and supported
• • Learning that feels relevant and engaging

They also highlighted barriers that can affect attendance, including anxiety, social pressures, feeling disconnected, inflexible systems and experiences that leave them feeling unheard. 

A key message from the research is that attendance is not simply about being present in school. It is influenced by relationships, wellbeing, inclusion and the everyday experiences of children and young people. 

From "Closed doors" to "Open doors"

The research methods and reports introduces the idea of "closed doors" and "open doors".
Open Doors - are the experiences, relationships and support that encourage young people to attend school and engage in learning.
Closed Doors - are the challenges and barriers that can make attendance more difficult.
Understanding both helps schools, families and services work together to create conditions where more young people can thrive. 

Looking ahead

The research identifies a number of recommendations focused on strengthening belonging, participation, wellbeing and inclusive practice across education. Central to these recommendations is the importance of continuing to listen to children and young people and using their experiences to shape future approaches to attendance and engagement. 

The findings will help inform ongoing work across Carmarthenshire, supporting the development of attendance, wellbeing, inclusion and participation priorities across education and partner services. 

The reports: 

The research reports below provide a deeper insight into the experiences shared by young people and the opportunities identified to strengthen attendance, engagement and wellbeing across Carmarthenshire:

Full Research Report
Executive Summary
Infographic

By listening carefully to young people, we can continue to build school communities where every learner feels they belong, feels heard and is supported to succeed. 

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