Reincluding: Providing Support to Reengage Youth who Truant in Secondary Schools

Abstract

Truancy, a complex, unresolved educational issue in countries with compulsory attendance policies, has the potential to cause further educational inequity in times of a global COVID-19 pandemic. At the time of this study, there was a paucity of research regarding youth perspectives of truancy compared to adult perspectives. To address this gap in truancy scholarship, data from a grounded theory study were used to indicate how a sample of 13 students who were truant in New Zealand explained their experiences of reinclusion in learning after persistent absences. Findings showed that support by a significant adult, not necessarily a teacher, and peers were vital in helping youth who are truant to develop a positive and determined attitude to reengage with learning. Results will support school leaders, counsellors, and teachers to further develop inclusive approaches that promote student well-being and achievement.