Jacqui Smith Education Quotations

It is disappointing that a stubborn minority of pupils, estimated at 8,000 in just 4% of secondary schools, remain determined to jeopardise their education and their futures through persistent truancy. While the causes of truancy are complex and challenging, we will focus on this minority who are responsible for much of unauthorised absence.

Today's results are further evidence of rising standards in our education system and this is a clear reflection of the hard work of our young people and their teachers. I congratulate them on their achievements - they should take pride in these results.