Executive summary

This series of three reports is intended as a starting point in a national conversation. The reports were developed as part of a program of work undertaken by the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth and Missing School Inc. The program has sought to examine current evidence, policies and approaches for supporting the education of students who experience non-negligible school absences because of significant illness or injury.

Students who miss school because of significant illness or injury face a variety of challenges in their education and may experience a range of adverse short-term and long-term consequences. Academic achievement may be affected, school relationships can be disrupted, motivation and engagement diminished, and isolation from the school community and peer group can have a profound effect on the student's social and emotional wellbeing.

The aim of this research is to understand the situation in which these students find themselves and whether it is adequately addressed. Each report addresses a separate question around how – and whether – these students are supported in their education.