Why First-Day Absence Chasing is a Safeguarding Imperative for International Schools

In the ever-evolving landscape of student welfare, safeguarding is no longer just a compliance exercise—it's a core responsibility. Among the many protocols schools implement to keep children safe, one of the most critical—and too often overlooked—is first-day absence chasing.

A Tragic Reminder from the UK

In 2016, a deeply distressing case in London cast a sharp spotlight on the consequences of not following up on a child's unexplained absence. Four-year-old Chadrack Mulo, a reception pupil in Hackney, was absent from school for two weeks without contact. During that time, his mother, Esther Eketi-Mulo, had tragically died at home from an epileptic seizure. With no extended family nearby and no rigorous absence-chasing procedure in place, it wasn’t until a welfare check was eventually triggered that Chadrack’s body was found—still at home, having died beside his mother.

This heartbreaking incident prompted many UK schools and local authorities to review their absence procedures and adopt stricter safeguarding protocols. The key message was simple: unexplained absence must never be ignored.

What International Schools Can Learn

While many international schools pride themselves on nurturing environments and strong pastoral care, transient communities, diverse family structures, and varying levels of local emergency support can complicate safeguarding efforts. That’s why robust absence-chasing procedures are not just recommended—they’re essential.

Key Safeguarding Measures for Absence Monitoring:

1. Same-Day ContactIf a student is not present at school and no prior notification has been received, staff must attempt to contact the parent or guardian by phone immediately—not later in the day or the next morning.

2. Multiple Emergency ContactsSchools should maintain at least three emergency contacts per child, ideally including someone outside the immediate household. In Chadrack’s case, this might have saved his life.

3. Escalation ProtocolsIf no contact can be made with a child's caregivers, the school must escalate. That may involve contacting local welfare authorities, arranging a home visit, or, in urgent situations, calling emergency services.

4. Clear Communication with FamiliesParents and guardians must understand the school's absence policy and their role in keeping emergency contact details up to date.

5. Daily Monitoring, Not Weekly Absence data must be checked daily. Delayed reviews—especially after weekends or holidays—can result in missed warning signs.

   
   

A Duty That Transcends Borders

International schools operate in a wide range of cultural, legal, and logistical contexts. But one truth is universal: The systems we put in place—or fail to—can be the difference between safety and tragedy. The story of Chadrack Mulo is not just a warning from the UK; it's a call to action for school leaders everywhere. Let it be the catalyst for strengthening your own safeguarding systems.

Final Thoughts

Implementing a rigorous first-day absence-chasing policy is not just about attendance. It’s about accountability, community trust, and above all, child protection. As international schools continue to grow in number and diversity, prioritising this simple yet life-saving protocol should be standard practice.

If your school needs guidance on developing or auditing your safeguarding policies, particularly those related to attendance and absence monitoring, we’re here to help.