The Importance of Good Attendance at School

At Heath Fileds, we believe that every school day counts. Regular attendance is not just a legal requirement—it’s a vital part of ensuring every child has the best possible start in life.

Why Attendance Matters

Children who attend school regularly are more likely to:

• Achieve better academic results
• Build strong friendships and social skills
• Develop good habits for future learning and employment

In fact, pupils with 95–100% attendance in Year 6 are 30% more likely to meet expected standards in reading, writing, and maths compared to those with lower attendance 

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What the Latest Guidance Says

The Department for Education’s latest guidance, Working Together to Improve School Attendance, outlines a clear expectation for schools and families to work in partnership to support good attendance. Key points include:

• Whole School Culture: Schools should promote the benefits of good attendance across the whole community.
• Early Support: Identifying and addressing barriers to attendance early is crucial. This includes working with families to understand and overcome challenges.
• Clear Communication: Schools must have a clear attendance policy and communicate regularly with parents and carers.
• Data-Driven Action: Schools are expected to monitor attendance data closely and act swiftly when patterns of absence emerge.
• Support for Vulnerable Pupils: Additional support should be provided for pupils with mental or physical health needs, or those with special educational needs and disabilities.

How You Can Help

Parents and carers play a vital role in ensuring children attend school regularly. Here’s how you can support your child:

• Establish a consistent morning routine
• Avoid taking holidays during term time
• Communicate with the school if your child is unwell or facing difficulties
• Attend meetings and work with us if attendance becomes a concern

Let’s Work Together

We are committed to supporting every child to attend school regularly and thrive. If you have any concerns or need support, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can make sure every child has the opportunity to succeed.