There are 3 Schools' Attendance and Welfare Officers (AWO) in post in Clackmannanshire.
The role of the AWO is to work closely with parents/carers and educational establishments to improve the attendance of all children and young people. To do this they will promote, develop and maintain positive working relationships with children, young people, parent/carer and the wider community.
If a child or young person does not attend their establishment and there has been no contact with the parent/carer, the Attendance and Welfare Officer may visit the home to find out the reason for the absence. The AWO will liaise with the parent/carer and the child/young person to find out the reason for absence.
There are many causes for poor attendance and the AWO will liaise with Social Work, Psychological Services and any other relevant agency to support the child/young person and his/her parent(s).
If there is no improvement in attendance a meeting involving the parent/carer and professionals involved with the child/young person may be arranged.
The Attendance and Welfare Officer may support the school to refer to the Reporter to the Children's Panel for non-attendance at school.
The following Scottish Government leaflets are available for reference:
Education & Schools
Kilncraigs, Greenside Street, Alloa, FK10 1EB
Tel: 01259 450000
Email: education@clacks.gov.uk