Better practice in school attendance - improving the school attendance of Indigenous students

This report combines the results of a literature review, school data analysis and consultations with students, teachers and parents, to provide a picture of school attendance problems among Indigenous school students.

Findings indicate that absenteeism in this group is markedly higher than among non-Indigenous students, particularly in secondary school. Indigenous students also have higher rates of suspension and lower retention rates than non-Indigenous students.

A discussion of successful strategies which promote attendance share some common principles:

1. The provision of professional development training for staff concerning Indigenous culture and lifestyle.
2. Recognition of the fact that standard Australian English is not the mother tongue of most Indigenous students.
3. Respect for Aboriginal languages.
4. Recognition of the benefits of an explicit teaching/learning approach and early intervention strategies to ensure the adequate acquisition of literacy skills in the early years of schooling.
5. Recognition of Indigenous patterns of discourse.
6. Recognition of the importance of focusing on the learning needs of the individual student.
7. Use of computers which allows students to feel in control of their learning situation by working at their own pace and level.
8. A whole school approach based on a commitment to providing successful learning experiences and outcomes for all students.
9. Involvement of Indigenous teaching personnel, parents and community members in all aspects of the schooling process.
10. Provision of a safe, secure school environment, characterised by good teacher/student relationships, which is free from racism and welcoming to Indigenous students.

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