Attendance and arriving at school on time are incredibly important. Research has shown that there is a high correlation between school attendance and academic success. Absence from school is often the greatest single cause of poor performance and achievement.
Why is it so important to attend every day?
- Each day’s lessons build upon those of the previous day(s) and so having time off school means that children miss out on learning that they will need for their next lesson.
- Reading information and doing the work independently is not as effective as having support with learning from an adult.
- Many classes use discussions, demonstrations, experiments and participation as part of the daily learning activities, and these cannot be made up by those who are absent.
Are there other benefits to my child?
- Having a good education will help to give your child the best possible start in life.
- Children with good attendance records generally achieve higher grades and enjoy school more.
- Regular school attendance encourages children to develop responsible behaviours and attitudes and to take on responsibilities, which contribute to a child’s self-esteem and confidence.
What are the risks of frequent absences?
- A child who does not attend school regularly will be unlikely to keep up with the work.
- Children will struggle to maintain their friendships if they are regularly absent from school.
- Children may feel embarrassed arriving into the classroom late and this will effect their own self-esteem and confidence.
What can parents do to help?
- Make sure that your child goes to school regularly and arrives on time – you will establish a good habit that they will carry through life.
- If your child starts missing school, work with the school to put things right. Make sure your child understands that you do not approve of them missing school.
- If your child is ill or must miss school for some other reason, contact school immediately. If you ask for remote learning, make sure your child completes it.
- Do not expect school to approve of shopping trips, birthday treats etc. during school hours. Arrange family holidays so that your child will not miss any learning.
- Take an interest in your child’s school day and their learning and be involved in the school as much as possible – your child will value school more if you do.
Leave of Absence in Term Time
From 1st September 2013, a change to government legislation means that schools are no longer allowed to authorise requests for children to be taken out of school for a holiday during term time.
Requests for leave can only be granted by schools if there are “exceptional circumstances” and holidays are not considered exceptional. Requests for leave must be made to the head teacher in advance, as the Department for Education has told schools that they cannot authorise any absences after they have been taken.
A penalty notice is a fine to parents or carers if they fail to ensure that their child attends school regularly.
REMEMBER – Regular attendance is necessary for success in school. Help ensure that your child has the best opportunity for success by making sure that they are in school every day.