Why is good attendance at school important.

Missing a few days of school here and there may not seem a big deal, but research shows that it can have a significant impact on children's learning.

Children who miss a substantial amount of school fall behind their peers, and struggle to catch up.

Most of the work they miss is never made up, which can lead to big gaps in their learning.

Poor attendance often starts at primary school, and children who fall into this pattern are likely to underachieve at secondary school. Pupils who miss between 10 and 20% of school (that’s 19 to 38 days per year) stand only a 35% chance of achieving five or more good GCSEs, compared to 73% of those who miss fewer than 5% of school days.

Friendships can be affected by persistent absence, too: it can be hard for a child who misses lots of school to form relationships with their classmates.

Getting your children to school safely, regularly and on time is vital.

1. Always make school a priority.
2. Being on time is vital, so your child is not playing catch up having missed an important part of the lesson.
3. We know that it is cheaper to go on holiday in term time but it will not be authorised, you may be fined and your child will fall behind.

Helpful information.

What can we do to improve attendance?

• Have a regular bedtime.
• Get things ready the night before.
• Record programmes to watch the next day.
• Get your child their own alarm clock. 
• Have a quiet time before bed, turn off the TV, computer and mobile phone.

Parents can help by

• Keeping in touch with school about any absence. Communication is important.
• Make medical/dental appointments outside of school hours where possible.

What is persistent absence?

The government has stated that if a pupils attendance falls below 90%, they are deemed to be a "persistently Absent" pupil.  You will be required to attend an attendance meeting if your child falls below 90%.

Parental Responsibilities.

If your child is between 5 and 18, you must make sure he/she attends school regularly. This is the law and you can be taken to court for breaking this law.

(section 444 of the Education Act 1996)

What is an authorised absence?

Parents and carers can explain an absence, but they cannot authorise it. Only the school can decide whether an explanation about an absence is acceptable and can be authorised. For persistent absence due to illness, the school will insist on a doctors note, appointment card or proof of medication.

What do i do if my child is ill.

If your child is genuinely ill then of course they need to remain at home. Please contact the school office or leave a message on our 24-hour answer phone service. Please leave the reason for absence, unwell is not sufficient. If you are unsure as to whether your child can attend school, please contact your doctor or speak to the school office.  You must call the school EACH day that your child is absent. (unless they have a long-term condition which has been discussed with the school. 

School details.

Telephone number- 0118 9375450. Email- admin@churchendacademy.com.

For any help or support please Email-C.baines@churchendacademy.com and Mrs Baines will gladly offer any help she can,