Denmark: New measures to address pupil absenteeism and declining well-being
The Danish government and four opposition parties in the Danish Parliament have agreed on a new plan to provide earlier support for pupils facing declining well-being or high absenteeism. The agreement introduces clearer obligations for schools and grants pupils and parents new rights. It aims to improve student well-being and reduce absenteeism in mainstream education.
While most children and young people in Denmark thrive in school, a significant number of pupils have a worryingly high levels of absence. Additionally, more pupils need academic and social support during compulsory education.
In June 2025, an expert group presented recommendations on legislation concerning inclusion and special needs education. Based on these, the Danish government and four opposition parties agreed to change the current legislation.
The agreement strengthens schools’ early and preventive work on absenteeism and declining academic or social well-being. It introduces clearer procedures and responsibilities, particularly for school leadership, and places a stronger focus on systematic follow-up.
The agreement introduces several concrete initiatives:
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Clearer responsibilities for school heads on absenteeism
School heads must continue to contact parents immediately in cases of absence, after 10 days of absence in a three month period and create a support plan after 15 days of absence.
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Support for all absent pupils:
Instruction for sick pupils is replaced by instruction for pupils who are absent from school, regardless of the reason. This support is offered when a pupil has been absent for 15 days within a three-month period.
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More flexible support arrangements:.
The existing nine-hour rule is removed. Pupils needing less than nine hours of support per week can now receive tailored help based on their needs, rather than being limited on mainstream classes.
A key element of the agreement is the introduction of individual educational support plans for pupils with declining academic or social well-being. Each plan must outline the support measures and clarify responsibilities. Pupils and parents now have new rights, including the right to help develop the plan and to request its preparation. They can also ask for follow-up meetings to review progress and adjust support if needed.
The Minister for Children and Education will present a bill on the required legislative changes. The new rules are set to take effect in the 2027/2028 school year.
For more information: Ny aftale sikrer elever hurtigere hjælp ved mistrivsel og fravær | Børne- og Undervisningsministeriet.
Source: Eurydice Unit Denmark
