Estimated number of pupil days lost to truancy in Scotland in 200607 (0.8 per cent of total pupil days). Source: Scottish Executive.

“A hot dog.”

A pupil is asked the correct name of a sausage dog.

48,000

Average number of pupils absent each day in Scotland in 200607. Source: Scottish Executive.

“Sir, do kids in Germany actually speak German or ... do they, like ... speak English with a funny accent?”

A Year 7 pupil fails to grasp the point of German lessons.

18.5

The average total days of absence per pupil in Scottish secondary schools in 200607. Source: Scottish Executive.