Attendance, attainment, and the role of online learning in bridging the gap

How remote learning can support attendance and boost attainment 

The latest DfE report on attendance and attainment reinforces what we’ve always known – attendance matters. The data clearly shows that when students are in school, their academic outcomes improve. But what happens when students can’t attend school? Whether due to illness, anxiety, or other barriers, many students miss out on valuable learning time. 

Recent changes to attendance codes have made it harder for remote learning to count towards official attendance records. On paper, students learning online aren’t technically considered ‘present’, but in practice, if they’re engaged in structured learning, isn’t that still a form of attendance when it comes to their education? 

Bridging the gap and preventing learning loss 

At Tute, we believe that the focus should be on whether learning is happening, rather than where it’s happening. When students can’t be in school, we offer a solution to help them stay engaged and prevent learning loss. 

💡 Engagement over location – Students who can’t attend school can continue learning remotely with us, in a structured, high-quality setting that ensures they don’t fall behind. 

🎯 Tailored learning options – Our approach is flexible. Whether it’s bespoke lessons aligned with what the student would have been learning in school or a general curriculum to ensure continuity, we adapt to meet their needs. 

📈 Supporting reintegration – Keeping students engaged in learning makes it easier for them to transition back into school when they’re able. A student who has continued their education remotely is more likely to reintegrate successfully, avoiding the learning gap that often makes return difficult. 

The bigger picture: attendance and engagement matter 

We know that simply being physically present in school doesn’t guarantee success – engagement does. As attendance policies evolve, it’s important to recognise that for some students, the difference between reintegration and disengagement could be a period of online learning that helps them stay connected with their education. 

By working alongside schools and local authorities, Tute offers a solution that supports the attendance agenda without leaving students behind. 

A cost-effective solution 

In the face of tightening budgets, we understand that schools and local authorities are under pressure. That’s why Tute offers a cost-effective way to help students stay engaged, without breaking the bank. 

• Our model is fully flexible – students can access Tute for as little or as long as they need: two days, two months, or even two years 

• Everything is rolling – there’s no need to commit to long-term enrolment 

• You only pay for what you use – no contracts, no minimum commitments 

• Our small-group online lessons and flexible scheduling mean every pound spent goes further 

• By keeping students on track during periods of absence, Tute helps reduce the long-term costs of disengagement or lost learning 

Put simply, our provision is affordable, flexible, and designed to fit around each student’s needs, supporting both academic outcomes and budget realities. 

For more information on how Tute Education can support your school’s attendance and compliance needs, visit www.tute.com or please do get in touch with us, we’re always happy to talk. 

Vanessa Leach

Managing Director