Natasha Asghar MS, the local Senedd Member for South Wales East has written to the Leader of Newport City Council demanding urgent action to tackle soaring rates of pupil absenteeism in local schools.
New figures reveal a troubling picture across Wales, with unauthorised absences in secondary schools now nearly double what they were just five years ago.
Natasha is particularly concerned about the figures in Newport, where the local data shows the number of pupils missing school has almost jumped from 74,122 in 2018/19 to a staggering 161,420 in 2023/24.
The Welsh Conservative politician has raised the alarm about a lack of effective local measures to get children back into the classroom and called for the Council Leader Dimitri Batrouni to set out how he intends to reverse the decline.
Commenting, Natasha Asghar MS, Senedd Member for South Wales East, said:
“These figures are a disgrace — and drastic action needs to be taken. Despite countless warnings, far too many pupils are missing out on large parts if their education and nothing is being done about it.
“It’s clear that Newport City Council must do more to support families and schools in getting children back into classrooms. Every day missed is a missed opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
“I’m asking the local authority to explain what’s being done — and what more can be done — to turn this around. Our young people deserve better.”
