School non-attendance : a case study of four trade school students

Abstract

School non-attendance is a phenomenon, in which everyone is involved in one way or another, but on which a controversy exists on the reasons behind it. This case study focuses on four Trade School students in attempting to explain this phenomenon. Firstly, a review of the literature on school non-attendance is provided. Moreover, as the students in the study were attending a local trade school, a brief overview is presented on trade schools in Malta. Interviews with the head of the school, the guidance teacher, the four students and their respective parent/s, were conducted, in an attempt to explain the students' school non attendance, particularly with regards to factors within the school and the home environment. Amongst other factors the study looked at the students' school experiences over the years, their level of academic attainment, their views on and expectations of the educational system in Malta in the light of their school experiences, and their future career plans. Finally, interview findings are analyzed and discussed in the light of the research review. One of the major findings in this study is that school non-attendance is likely to persist unless the initiative is taken to listen to students' opinions, views and complaints, and the necessary action is taken.