Across the UK, the number of children missing in education has reached record highs. Persistent absence is becoming an urgent crisis, leaving many young people disconnected from learning and struggling to find a way back into the classroom. At Bath Rugby Foundation’s Alternative Learning Hub (ALH), we are working tirelessly to change that by using tried-and-tested methods that focus on understanding each student's unique challenges and providing personalised support.

Identifying barriers through student questionnaires

One of the first steps in our process is to understand why a student has disengaged. Where the solutions aren't obvious we use a range of tools such as diagnostic questionnaires developed by key researchers, card sorts or pictorial representations on elements of the school day to help gain clarity on issues. We then work with the home and/or school to find meaningful solutions.

Listening and collaboration: The key to re-engagement

At the core of our approach is something simple yet incredibly effective—listening. Many students who stop attending school feel unheard or misunderstood. Through one-to-one conversations and tailored interventions, we help them voice their struggles and regain confidence in their education.

We also believe that collaboration is essential. Schools, families, and external support services all play a role in helping students return to education. By working together, we can build realistic and effective pathways back into learning, ensuring that every young person gets the support they need.

Personalised pathways and one-to-one support

Once we’ve gathered the information, we work closely with schools to determine the best course of action. In some cases, this means gradual reintegration into mainstream education. For others, it means joining our Alternative Learning Hub, where they receive one-to-one support, life skills coaching, and structured learning in a safe and supportive environment.

The ALH is designed to be flexible, recognising that every student’s journey back into education will look different. By providing a mix of academic learning, sport, and mentoring, we help young people rebuild their confidence and motivation.

What’s working for you?

Our approach is working, but we know that we are just one part of a much bigger effort to tackle persistent absence. As our Alternative Learning Hub Manager Jonno Wood explains, many of the solutions to this crisis have existed for decades—yet they are not being used widely enough.

So we want to hear from you. What methods have you seen making a difference? How are you helping students who aren’t attending school to get back into education? By sharing knowledge and best practices, we can create better solutions and ensure that no child is left behind.

If you would like to learn more about our work at Bath Rugby Foundation’s Alternative Learning Hub or explore how we can support students together, get in touch with Jonno: [email protected]