Southampton charity encouraging kids to get back into school
The charity say they're seeing huge improvements in school attendance
A Southampton charity says they're having a huge impact on encouraging children to get back into school.
Last year, the city had one of the highest rates in the country of secondary school kids missing classes.
Now, the Saints Foundation say 63% of persistently absent students they've been working with in mainstream schools have improved their attendance in the last school year.
Mike Dixon, Educations Project Manager, said: "It's super important that young people are in school as much as they can be because every day missed is a missed opportunity.
"So the chance for them to go in ready to learn and be in the best place to get the most out of that and to allow them to have as many open doors for the future after school, then that's the key.
"We're really pleased to be working with young people and supporting them to improve their attendance, and hopefully raising their aspirations and supporting them to have better opportunities in the future."
Saints Foundation is the charity of Southampton Football Club which supports people in need throughout Southampton.
In alternative provision schools with their group, Premier League Inspires, the charity say 86% of schools have said the project's helping to reduce participants risk of exclusion.
Mr Dixon added: “In primary, secondary, and alternative settings, our staff are working with some of the least engaged in education, most at risk of low attendance, and becoming NEET {not in education, employment, or training}.
“Our school staff build a connection and trust that opens our young people up to engaging in their education, improving their mental wellbeing, and raising their aspirations for future.”