School Attendance

Every day at school really matters and helps children to get the best start to life.

Every day at school really matters

Every child in Halton deserves to have the very best start in life and to grow up with opportunities to reach their full potential – good school attendance is one of the ways to make this happen.

The academic and social benefits of good school attendance help children throughout their childhood and later in life.

In the last few years the number of children missing days of school has increased and it is a priority in Halton, and in the rest of the country, to turn this around.

We can all work together to improve children’s school attendance.

Being on time matters too, as being late for school can be disruptive to children and their friends in class.

We want children to be in school every day, on time and ready to learn!

Every day at school: means better opportunities in the future

Good school attendance leads to better opportunities for children.

School isn’t just about education – it’s about making friends, enjoying new activities, building confidence and skills for future life

Being in school helps to keep children safe and well, as children with good school attendance are less likely to be involved in crime or anti-social behaviour

Good attendance habits start at a very young age – by encouraging this, you will be setting out values for their future success in life.

Every day at school: means never missing out

You may think that the odd day off school here and there won’t make a difference, but every day away from school really does add up:

• 80% attendance over a school year means your child misses a whole year of education over five years
• 85% attendance means that 29 school days, nearly six weeks, or 145 lessons are missed over a year
• 90% attendance means 19 school days, four weeks or 95 lessons are missed over a year

How to support your child to go to school

If you or your child have any worries about them going to school, talk to your school straight away, as they want to help.

If your child is struggling to attend, or you are struggling to get your child to school, it’s really important to talk to school staff openly and honestly about the reasons.

You can speak to the class teacher, pastoral staff, SENCO or other members of staff, any of whom can make sure the right support is in place.

If your child is going to be late, it is still really important to go into school.

If your child has missed out on school work, help them to catch up if you can and speak to your school, as there are lots of resources available.

Getting your child to school

If you struggle getting your child to school, support is also available from the Education Welfare Service. You can contact the team by email EWService@halton.gov.uk