What factors do school social workers identify as addressing school absenteeism, drop-outs / early school leaving?

Abstract

This dissertation explores four main factors contributing to absenteeism and school drop-out from the perspective of school social workers working within state schools. The four factors being considered are the school, the community, the family and the individual. The analysis of varous local and overseas studies and policy documents has informed the frameworks used and the subsequent discussion. Moreover, a qualitative strategy has been adopted and the methodology included a convenience sample involving state school social workers. Data was retrieved through thematic analysis emerging from the interviews with these professionals. Programmes developed by the school; collaboration among professionals within or outside the school; volunteer collaboration from different agencies and organisations; the family collaboration and culture, and one-to-one intervention are some of the main factors that appear to minimise the risks of early school leaving and drop-out. Taking into consideration the ecological perspective, further recommendations for policy, practice and research development are provided.