Why is regular school attendance important?
“Moments matter. Attendance counts.”
Regular attendance helps children:
- Make better social and academic progress
- Manage routines, school work and friendships
- Find learning more satisfying
- Transition successfully between school phases
- Stay safe during school hours
- Have a commitment to education
The link between attendance and attainment is clear:
Missing school has a clear impact on attainment, affecting progress, confidence and readiness to learn. Children who miss 2 to 4 weeks of school in year 11 have half the odds of achieving a grade 5 in English and maths compared to similar pupils who attend regularly. This learning begins in Early Years and in order to build strong foundations for education, children need to be in school.
But attendance is important for more than just attainment:
At Market Drayton Infant and Nursery School, we believe that every day in school counts. Regular attendance helps children develop friendships, build social skills and take part in the full life of our school community.
Coming to school every day gives children a sense of belonging, establishes positive routines and provides valuable opportunities to grow academically, socially and emotionally. Children learn best when they are present, engaged and able to build upon previous learning alongside their peers.
When children miss school regularly, they can find it harder to keep up with learning, develop confidence and maintain friendships. By working together, families and school can help children develop positive attendance habits that support their success both now and in the future.
Parental Responsibility
Parents and carers must make sure their children go to school regularly. By law, school-age children must get a full-time education. Not doing so may lead to fines or legal action and can harm their learning, friendships, self-esteem and confidence.
Prevention
- Highlight the Importance: Make sure your child understands why good attendance and punctuality matter.
- Stay Engaged: Show interest in their education by discussing schoolwork and encouraging participation in activities.
- Communicate Issues: Talk about any school problems and inform their teacher or the Safeguarding and Welfare Officer about serious concerns.
- Prioritise Attendance: Avoid letting them miss school for minor ailments.
Punctuality
Ensure your child arrives to school on time. Classroom doors open at 8.30am and close promptly at 8.40am. Any child arriving after the doors have closed will not be permitted entry and will be required to enter through the office, who will mark the register as late. 
Promotion
- Value Education: Encourage your child to make the most of their educational opportunities.
- Importance of Attendance: Irregular attendance disrupts learning, progress, and leads to underachievement.
- Support Success: Ensure your child receives the education they deserve. We want them to succeed as much as you do!
How can I get help with my child’s attendance?
If you are worried about your child’s attendance, start by discussing your concerns with the school directly. The school has an attendance team who may be able to assist. Additionally, we work closely with a range of external agencies who can provide further support if necessary.
What about term time leave?
Family holidays in term time are not allowed in law and are unlikely to be authorised. Family emergencies also need careful consideration. It is not always appropriate or in the best interests of the child to miss school for emergencies which are being dealt with by adult family members. Notifying the school of leave due to a family emergency does not mean it will be authorised.
Please note that where parents fail to ensure their child attends school regularly, legal action, including penalty notices, may be considered.
Section 7 of the Education Act 1996 states that as a Parent/carer of a child of statutory school age, you have a legal responsibility to ensure their full time education through regular attendance at school or otherwise.
Take a look at the documents below for further information or find our Trust attendance policy on our policies page.
