Youth Work Matters: New Research Shows the Impact on School Attendance
A new national report from our OnSide is shining a spotlight on something we see every day: when young people feel safe, supported and inspired, they are more likely to thrive, both inside and outside the classroom.
The report, “Back to school: Can youth work help turn the tide on school absence?”, is based on a first-of-its-kind study conducted by King’s College London, commissioned by OnSide and funded by The Burberry Foundation.
What the research shows
The findings are clear.
Young people who regularly attend Youth Zones miss two fewer days of school per year. That equates to a 21% reduction in unauthorised absence compared to a matched group of peers.
The impact is even more significant for:
- Children aged 9–11
- Young people who were already severely absent
Importantly, Youth Zones were not designed specifically to tackle school attendance. Yet the research shows they are as effective, or more effective than programmes created with that explicit goal.
Why youth work makes a difference
School attendance doesn’t exist in isolation. It is closely linked to wellbeing, confidence, relationships and a sense of belonging.
At 224 Youth Zone, young people have access to:
- A safe, welcoming space outside school hours
- Trusted youth workers who build consistent, positive relationships
- Opportunities in sport, arts, enterprise and personal development
- A community where they feel they belong
For some young people, particularly those facing challenges at home or in school, these consistent touch points can be transformative. When a young person feels seen, heard and valued, their engagement with school often improves naturally.
Supporting the whole young person
Youth work complements schools by supporting the whole child socially, emotionally and practically. It creates an environment where young people can build resilience, confidence and motivation.
For those who are struggling with attendance, Youth Zones can act as a bridge, helping them rebuild routine, confidence and positive adult relationships in a non-formal setting.
A call for long-term investment
This research strengthens the case for recognising youth work as a vital part of the wider attendance system.
If we are serious about addressing school absence, we must look beyond the school gates. Long-term investment in youth provision ensures that more young people have access to safe spaces, positive role models and opportunities that help them stay connected to education.
At 224 Youth Zone, we are proud to be part of a national movement proving that youth work changes lives, once 224 opens we will be able to support young people in South Bristol to access a wide range of activities and support, enabling them to discover their passions, voice and confidence.
Because when young people thrive in their community, they thrive in school too.
You can read the full report here: OnSide_Education_Research_FINAL