Attendance & Punctuality: A Parent’s Guide
Helping children attend school regularly and on time is one of the most important ways families can support achievement, wellbeing, and long-term success. This section of our website provides clear information and practical strategies, along with support pathways for families facing challenges such as anxiety, mental health concerns, or barriers at home.
Why Attendance Matters
Coming to school every day helps children build the strongest possible foundation for learning and wellbeing. Good attendance supports your child in many ways:
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Learning New Skills
Each day brings new learning, new ideas, and new skills. Regular attendance helps children stay confident and keep up with lessons. -
Impressive Exam Results
Strong attendance gives children the very best chance to achieve well in assessments and exams. Every lesson builds towards future success. -
Time With Friends
School is a social place. Being in every day helps children maintain friendships, feel connected, and enjoy being part of their peer group. -
The Best Chance to Succeed
Good routines and consistent attendance help children make steady progress — academically, emotionally, and socially. -
A Sense of Belonging
Feeling part of a class and school community builds confidence, self-esteem, and a positive attitude to learning. -
School Activities & Experiences
From clubs and trips to special events and celebrations, attending regularly means children don’t miss out on exciting opportunities.

Every Day Counts
It is surprising just how many lost learning hours there are when a student reaches 95% or below.
For a Year 10 or 11 who are studying for their GCSE, if there attendance is on 95% this will equate to the following hours of lost learning:
- 8 hours of Maths
- 8 hours of English
- 11 hours of Science
- 5 hours for each other GCSE subject
If their attendance then drops to 90% then these figures will double to:
- 16 hours of Maths
- 16 hours of English
- 22 hours of Science
- 10 hours for each other GCSE subject


