Attendance and Absence
Why is it important for children not to miss school?
All parents want the best for their children and for them to get on well in life. Having a good education is important to ensure that they have the best opportunities in their adult life. They only get one chance at school, and your child’s future may be affected by not attending school regularly.
Regular school attendance is an important part of giving children the best possible start in life. The aim should be to attend 100% of the time.
Going to school regularly is important for your child's future. Parents are responsible for making sure their children receive full-time education. Parents are legally responsible for making sure that children attend school.
Being on time is also vital. Arriving late to school can be very disruptive for your child, their teacher and the other children in the class.
Some parents may find it difficult to ensure that their child attends school regularly. If this is the case, please speak to us as soon as possible so that the situation can be addressed.
How to support your child’s attendance
You can help prevent your child missing school by:
- having a routine from an early age and sticking it to it
- making sure your child understands the importance of good attendance and punctuality
- making sure they understand the possible implications for themselves and you as a parent if they don't attend
- taking an interest in their education - ask about school work and encourage them to get involved in school activities
- discussing any problems, they may have at school and letting us know about anything that is causing concern
- not letting them take time off school for minor ailments or holidays during term time
To avoid disrupting your child's education, you should arrange (as far as possible), appointments and outings:
- after school hours
- at weekends
- during school holidays
An average attendance of 80% or less across a child’s school career adds up to missing a whole 2 years from school.
Being late for school reduces learning time. If your child is 5 minutes late every day they will miss three days of learning each year. If your child is 15 minutes late every day they will miss 2 weeks of learning each year.
Carterton Primary School is committed to ensuring that your child receives the best possible education to prepare them for the next stage of their life. Each school day is carefully planned, and each lesson informs a wider programme of learning. Therefore, every lesson really does count. Your child is a valued member of our school community and every day missed is a day lost without them
Children need to attend school regularly to support their learning and development, to make sure they are safe; to enhance their wellbeing and so they do not miss out on their entitlements and opportunities.
Children find it easier to build and sustain a range of social relationships when they regularly attend their school and build a secure attachment.
Parental support is critical in ensuring that children achieve in education, and support and guidance is always available from our school. We know that we need to work together with parents/carers to support our children to attend school and to be successful. We want all parents/carers to help their children by making sure they attend school every day and arrive on time. Doing this will ensure that your child feels confident, up to date with learning, and up to date with their circle of friends.
Please see below the exceptional leave form that will need to be completed for any absences in school time.