Vulnerable pupils

Absence rates for those eligible for free school meals (FSM) are higher than for other students. In this article, Alex Colclough provides insight into the issue and considers what schools might do to help. Summary Poverty can lead to obstacles preventing pupils from attending school as often as they should. A drop in attendance could be one of the first indicators that something is wrong.Schools can help poor families with effective communication, by working with other agencies and by looking at how they apply their practices and procedures. The Children’s Society states that currently four million children in the UK…

Fabricated or induced illness (FII) is a little-known form of child abuse. However, one of its strongest indicators is that of frequent and unexplained absences. In this article, Suzanne O’Connell explains what it is and how it might be recognised. Summary FII is a type of child abuse that school staff should be aware of.In cases of FII, there may be frequent absences and medical appointments with explanations that seem implausible. Suspected cases of FII should be referred to social care and a multi-agency response is needed. Fabricated or induced illness (FII), previously often referred to as ‘Munchausen’s syndrome by…

There has been a rise in mental health issues in staff and students in schools and, although there are many interventions available, it can be difficult to see the woods for the trees. Sam Garner provides starting points for schools that are looking to expand their mental health interventions for students and staff, in order to help schools evaluate their effectiveness and fit. Summary Prevention and mental health promotion programmes and activities can be implemented effectively by teachers and can have a significant impact on psychosocial and academic performance.School-based interventions are most effective if they are completely and accurately implemented.As…