At Weston Infant and Junior Academies (The Weston Federation) we understand the importance of good attendance and we work collaboratively with parents to ensure that pupils are attending school. We know our families well and we closely follow DFE guidance, liaising with the Education Welfare Officer, the Trust Attendance and Safeguarding Leads and with the Local Authority.
Why is school attendance important?
Regular attendance is important to your child’s academic achievement, wellbeing and wider development. There is evidence and research to suggest that regular school attendance is a key mechanism to support children and young people’s educational, economic and social outcomes. School can facilitate positive peer relationships, which contributes to better mental health and wellbeing.
Attendance at school is crucial in preparing your child for their future beyond Weston Infant and Junior Academies too! There is also evidence that pupils who have the highest attendance throughout their time at school gain the best GCSE and A level results.
What does it mean if a child is persistently or severely absent?
Children who are registered at a school but regularly fail to attend are officially referred to as being ‘persistently’ or ‘severely’ absent. The school day is split into two sessions – one session counts as a morning or afternoon spent in school. Pupils who have missed more than 10% of school sessions are considered persistently absent, while children who have missed more than 50% of school sessions are referred to as severely absent.
