A bold partnership to tackle one of education’s most persistent challenges

Ensuring students attend school regularly is fundamental to their learning, wellbeing and long-term development. Now, a new research initiative led by the University of Melbourne Faculty of Education is set to support schools to address attendance in more proactive, evidence-based ways.

Introducing Pathways2Participation: a new study to improve school attendance

Pathways2Participation (P2P), led by University of Melbourne Faculty of Education’s Associate Professor Lisa McKay Brown and Deakin University’s Professor Glenn Melvin, is a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) framework developed for Australian schools. Delivered in partnership with Deakin University and Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS), the project represents a significant step forward in addressing chronic absenteeism through prevention and early intervention.

From insight to action

Over the past six months, the research team has worked closely with MACS school staff and system leaders to build a detailed understanding of current attendance practices, challenges and priorities. Through surveys and interviews, educators have shared insights into what is working and where additional support is needed.

This foundational work has informed the design of the next phase of the project, which will move from understanding to implementation.

Later this year, P2P will be introduced in participating MACS schools as part of a case-control trial. The study will compare outcomes between schools implementing the framework and matched schools that are not, measuring impact on overall attendance, chronic absenteeism and staff confidence in delivering attendance interventions.

A whole-school approach to attendance

Unlike traditional approaches that respond after attendance issues emerge, P2P is designed as a proactive, whole-school framework. It supports schools to identify students at risk earlier and tailor responses based on levels of need.

Associate Professor McKay Brown said the initiative reflects a shift towards more inclusive, system-wide approaches to supporting students.

“We are proud to partner with the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools to trial Pathways2Participation, a whole-school, multi-tiered system of support framework developed by the University of Melbourne and Deakin University,” she said. “This whole-school approach equips schools with the knowledge, skills and capabilities to deliver proactive, inclusive supports and actively engages parents, carers and students as partners in improving attendance.”

Participating schools will commit members of their attendance teams to workshops and coaching over a two-year period, building capability and embedding sustainable practices within their school communities.

Professor Glenn Melvin and Associate Professor Lisa McKay Brown presenting findings

Building capability, strengthening outcomes

The study aims to:

• improve overall school attendance and reduce chronic absenteeism
• support earlier identification of students at risk
• strengthen tiered responses within schools
• increase staff confidence and capability in implementing interventions

For Professor Glenn Melvin, the project highlights the importance of aligning research with the realities of school environments.

“This is a major attendance initiative that aims to support schools to develop a culture of attendance and strengthen their focus on prevention and early intervention for attendance challenges,” said Professor Melvin.

“Embedding effective attendance practices into a school community is not only associated with improved academic outcomes but can also reduce workloads for schools. I’m looking forward to working with the schools on this initiative.”

Looking ahead

As schools continue to navigate increasingly complex student needs, Pathways2Participation offers a timely and scalable approach grounded in research, collaboration and practice.

Expressions of Interest are now open for MACS schools interested in learning more about the study, with recruitment set to begin later this year.

By bringing together universities and school systems in a shared effort, the project aims to create lasting impact, supporting not only improved attendance, but stronger engagement, wellbeing and educational outcomes for students across Victoria.