As the Secretary of State for Education has made clear, young people regularly attending school is a national priority and it is important for their education, well-being, and long-term development. Attendance continues to be mandatory for all students. Children should be in school.

Thank you to the parents and carers that continue to support their child in attending the academy regularly and limiting absence. Academy attendance continues to be higher than the national average and significantly higher than the local average.

The link with regular attendance and outcomes is clear. In 2023, those students with attendance above 92% were rewarded, on average, with outcomes 1.5 grades higher in all subjects. 92% attendance was the same as missing only 10 days. The success for students with attendance above 95% was even higher.

We are aware that some students face different barriers to regular attendance, and we endeavour to provide individual support for all students. In some cases, it is essential that students are in the academy though to receive this.

The support available includes:

•     Individual student and parental meetings

•     ATTEND framework support

•     Daily absence calls and messages

•     Year Team intervention

•     Home School Liaison Officer visits

•     School Nurse involvement

•     Rewards and incentives

•     Attendance Monitors

We would also recommend that parents use the links below to access additional advice to support their attempts to maximise their child’s attendance and limit their absence.

We feel that it is important that you are aware of the changes within the Local Authority, their approach to Fixed Penalty Notices, unauthorised absence and holidays, and how it may affect you. This LETTER provides you with additional detail.

Please do not hesitate to contact us to arrange a meeting or discuss any problems affecting your child’s attendance. The Attendance Team are available on (01482) 975553 or can be emailed on: