Dutch Senate passes law to strengthen schools’ response to student absence

The Dutch Senate has passed a law requiring primary schools, secondary schools and vocational colleges to take a more preventive approach to student absence. The measures are due to take effect on 1 August 2027.

The law, called the School Absence Reduction Act, is intended to improve how schools identify and respond to pupils and vocational students who miss school for long periods or drop out, the government said. It will also give municipalities and regional education partnerships more information about absence so they can offer schools targeted support.

Schools will be expected to improve attendance records and act sooner when a student is missing school. The government says existing registration practices will be used to limit extra administration. Possible interventions include a mentor giving a pupil earlier attention or a youth doctor becoming involved in good time.

The law also changes how exemptions from education are considered for physical or psychological reasons. A youth doctor assessing an exemption application will routinely seek advice from the regional education partnership about educational options available to the child. Exemptions will also be possible for more flexible periods, the government said.

Education State Secretary Tielen said schools, municipalities and regional partnerships would share responsibility for preventing absence and helping children return to school. The education ministry will support schools as they prepare for the law’s introduction.