Attendance and Punctuality : https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-improve-school-attendance

The government recently launched a new drive focused on improving attendance in schools. At St Francis of Assisi, we are committed to improving attendance and recognise that to give our children the best chances in life, full attendance in school is essential. Click on the link above to read more about it.

Full attendance in school is very important. Research has proven that there is a high correlation between school attendance and academic performance and success. Absence from school is often the greatest single cause of poor performance and achievement.

Why is it so important to attend every day?

• Learning is a progressive activity; each day’s lessons build upon those of the previous day(s).
• Reading the material and completing work independently does not compensate for direct interaction with the teacher.
• Many classes use discussions, demonstrations, experiments and participation as part of the daily learning activities, and these cannot be made up by those who are absent.

Are there other benefits to my child?

• Pupils with good attendance records generally achieve higher grades and enjoy school more.
• Having a good education will help to give your child the best possible start in life
• Regular school attendance patterns encourage the development of other responsible patterns of behaviour.

Government legislation means that schools are not allowed to authorise requests for children to be taken out of school for a holiday during term time.

Requests for leave can only be granted by schools if there are “exceptional circumstances” and holidays are not considered exceptional. Requests for leave must be made to the Headteacher in advance, as the Department for Education has told schools that they cannot authorise any absences after they have been taken.

We publish our attendance data every week in the school newsletter.