All schools in the island have an attendance rate of more than 90%.

A run down of all school attendances sees them range from just below 92% up to nearly 98%. The island’s five secondary schools all fell within 91.86% to 93.27%.

The figures were revealed in a written answer to a House of Keys question from Daphne Caine (Garff).

Education Minister Graham Cregeen added: ’Following ongoing monitoring of attendance and a recent review into the work of educational welfare officers (EWOs), the department has sought to revise the thresholds for intervention to ensure earlier action is taken to support improvements where there are cases of short to medium-term absence from school.

He added: ’Authorised absences include educational visits, sporting activities/competitions, school trips and instances of religious observance.’

Absence through illness is classed as authorised. The department can fine parents whose children are persistently absent without a valid reason.

The Minister said: ’In practice, fines are rarely imposed, as EWOs are involved early to work with families to improve attendance. Short of imposing fines, the department issues a 15-day warning letter to parents, advising them of steps required by the department, and support available to improve attendance of pupils.’