New government figures show that here has been a drop in pupil absence rates in state primary and secondary schools.

In news which is sure to be of interest to those in teaching jobs, the Department of Education statistics show that unauthorised absences in secondary schools for the 2010 spring term stood at 23 per cent.

Unauthorised absence from primary schools for the period made up 14 per cent of all absences.

Schools minister Nick Gibb said that the fall in overall absence rates was ''welcome'', but bemoaned the fact that the ''level of absenteeism is still too high''.

"The government is committed to tackling the underlying causes of absenteeism, raising academic standards and ensuring every child can meet their potential, regardless of their background,'' he added

''It's crucial that children are not missing out on valuable lessons that could leave them vulnerable to falling behind."

The most common reason for unauthorised absences in primary and secondary schools was 'illness' the figures found.

Capita Education Services, leaders in teacher recruitment and education jobs.