We understand that as parents, you want the very best for your child, and one of the most important ways to support their success is by ensuring excellent attendance at school. Consistent attendance is crucial for your child’s development and sets the foundation for their future learning and life skills.
1.Building Strong Foundations
In the early years of primary school, children are introduced to fundamental skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. These foundational skills are built upon with each lesson, and regular attendance ensures your child doesn't miss out on key concepts. Every school day provides new opportunities for learning and growth that are essential for their academic progress.
2.Developing Social Skills
School is not just about academics; it's also where children develop social skills. By attending school regularly, your child learns how to interact with their peers, share, resolve conflicts, and build friendships. These social experiences are vital for their emotional and social development, helping them to become well-rounded individuals.
3.Creating a Routine
Children thrive on routine, and attending school consistently helps them develop a sense of stability. A regular school schedule teaches them the importance of punctuality and responsibility, habits that are important throughout life. This routine also helps them transition more smoothly into secondary school and beyond.
4.Maximizing Potential
When children attend school regularly, they are more likely to reach their full potential. They are better prepared to keep up with the curriculum, participate in class activities, and take advantage of enrichment opportunities. Regular attendance helps your child stay engaged and motivated, setting them up for future success.
5.Reducing Anxiety
Frequent absences can lead to children feeling anxious about falling behind or not understanding what their classmates are learning. By ensuring your child attends school regularly, you are helping them stay on track and feel confident in their abilities. This also reduces the pressure of catching up on missed work.
6.Legal and Educational Responsibilities
In the UK, it is a legal requirement for children to attend school regularly. As parents, you have a responsibility to ensure your child receives a full-time education. Poor attendance can have long-term effects on your child’s education and can result in legal consequences for parents. By prioritising attendance, you are fulfilling your role in supporting your child’s education.
How You Can Help:
Create a positive morning routineto make getting ready for school a stress-free experience.
Communicate the importance of schoolto your child, making it clear that attending school is a priority.
Schedule appointments outside school hourswhenever possible to minimise disruptions.
Stay informedabout your child’s attendance and work closely with the school if any issues arise.
We appreciate your support in ensuring that your child attends school regularly. Together, we can help them build a bright and successful future.
Regular attendance and punctuality are crucial to children’s overall attainment. All parents have a legal responsibility to ensure children attend school each day and are only absent if they are ill or have a medical appointment which cannot be arranged outside of school hours.
If your child is unable to come to school, we kindly ask that you call the school on each day of absence and on return show a GP or medical appointment letter to a member of the office.
At St. John Fisher the learning begins as soon as the school doors are opened from 8:40 am. Instructions are given; work set and relationships developed, so making sure your child arrives on time is essential.
Regular lateness or low attendance is recorded and will be followed up by a member of senior leadership. If need be, this could be referred to the Educational Welfare Officer at the Local Authority. Family holidays should always be taken during school holidays, and we will only authorise absence during term time in exceptional circumstances. On these occasions, permission must be sought in advance from the Head of School. Please mark these lettersFAO: Mr P Kenny.
