The management of learner absenteeism at an urban secondary school

Abstract

Learner absenteeism poses serious challenges to schools in their endeavours to manage the phenomenon effectively. Schools should draw a clear distinction between authorised and unauthorised absenteeism. The different manifestations of learner absenteeism cannot be dealt with in the same manner, but requires actions and/or sanctions which fit a specific type of absence. This study explores the manner in which a secondary school, situated in a semiurban area managed learner absenteeism. A detailed study of a secondary school from the district Ekurhuleni (D4), situated in Gauteng East, was conducted. For purposes of this study the following documents were utilised in attempts to address propositions relating thereto: national legislation, the Policy on Learner Attendance as well as ancillary documents relating to the management of absenteeism in casu. In-depth interviews were conducted with the principal, educators and learners in order to understand what their perception of absenteeism is, the reasons for absenteeism, and how it is managed at the school. Interviewees were observed over an extended period of time in order to further supplement the data. The data presented, indicates that the school uses an advanced electronic system to record learner attendance which is validated by manual systems for the recording of learner absenteeism. The school has developed a learner Code of Conduct which set the standards for school attendance as well as the sanctions applicable for absenteeism. Despite these measures at the school, learners are still absent for part of the day or a full school day. Absenteeism includes both authorised and unauthorised absenteeism as well as valid and invalid reasons. Although the school imposes sanctions outlined in their Code of Conduct, this has not eradicated the challenge of learner absenteeism. I argue in the study that different schools encounter different challenges regarding absenteeism, to be addressed on an ad hoc basis. Each individual school should be encouraged to develop measures to be incorporated in individual policies regarding absenteeism. Special attention has to be given to valid yet unauthorised absenteeism and how to manage it. It is therefore recommended that lacunae in the Policy on Learner Attendance should be addressed accordingly to ensure effective management of attendance.