RIGHTS RESPECTING: Article 28 - I have the right to an education.

We encourage all children to come to school every day. Our school target is 98% attendance.

Did you know?

90% attendance sounds good but means that your child misses on average:

• One half day every week.
• Nearly four weeks every school year.
• Over one school year in a school career.

2 weeks holiday in term time every year with no other absences means that your child:

• Can only ever achieve 95% attendance
• Will miss about two terms in a school career

5 minutes late every day means missing about 3 days of school every year.

Schools and the local authority monitor school absence and work with families and young people where the level of absence is giving cause for concern. The information within this section explains the law and how legal sanctions for irregular attendance at school are applied in Newcastle.  

How can I help my child to get the best out of school?

• Be aware of the impact of regular absences - missing school is missing out.
• Build up good habits of punctuality and attendance. These start early in life, so even before your child starts school, establish good routines, such as reading before bedtime and going to bed on time.
• Make sure your child understands the benefits of regular attendance at school.
• If your child is off school, you must let the school know why and tell them when they can expect your child back.
• It can be difficult, but try to make all appointments for the doctor, dentist, optician after school hours or during the school holidays where possible.
• Don't let your child stay off for reasons like going shopping, birthdays, minding the house, looking after brothers and sisters.
• Avoid taking family holidays in term time.
• Take an active interest in your child’s school work and offer support with homework.
• Attend parents’ evenings to discuss your child’s progress.
• Don’t let your child stay off school for a minor ailment.
• Each school day is split into two sessions and the attendance register is taken every morning and afternoon. If your child is poorly first thing or but improves by lunchtime, send them into school for the afternoon session.
• If your child recovers from illness before the end of the week, send them back to school even if it's only for one day - every day counts.