Listen to this story Members can listen to an AI-generated audio version of this article. 1.0x Audio narration uses an AI-generated voice. 0:00 0:00 Become a member to listen to this article Subscribe Last week’s publication of the Children’s Commissioner’s report, Hidden NEETs: The attendance of 16 and 17-year-olds in further education colleges in England, has shone a welcome spotlight on an issue that has received too little attention in education policy: post-16 attendance. The report estimates that around 42,000 16 and 17-year-olds enrolled in further education are attending less than half of their expected sessions, effectively making them “hidden NEETs” (not in education, employment or training) who do not appear in official figures despite being largely disengaged from learning. It also suggests that more than half of college students would meet the school definition of persistent absence, with attendance of below 90 per cent. These findings should concern policymakers. Strong attendance is closely linked to attainment, progression and future employment prospects. If significant numbers of young people are enrolled in education but missing huge chunks of learning, there is a clear risk that they will leave education without the qualifications, skills and confidence needed to succeed and potentially find themselves NEET. Become a member for unlimited access to FE Week Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism on FE and skills, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits. subscribe If you have an account, please login. Sign in