The percentage of absences in city technology colleges, 2006-07.

Source: Department for Children, Schools and Families

“Miss, have you been on the blue Smarties again?”

What a pupil thought of the extra-pacy maths lesson - with the Ofsted inspector at the back.

7.86

The percentage of absences in secondary schools 2006-07.

Source: Department for Children, Schools and Families

“When you stand up, where does your lap go?”

A primary pupil ponders life, the universe and everything.

9.49

The percentage of absences in academies 2006-07.

Source: Department for Children, Schools and Families.