Attendance

Click here to see the full document from the Department for Education.

All pupils of statutory school age have an equal right to access an education in accordance with the National Curriculum regulations.
No pupil should be deprived of their opportunity to receive an education that meets their needs and personal development.
It is the legal responsibility of parents to ensure attendance at school.
Pupils and their parents/carers may need to be supported at some stage to meet their attendance obligations and responsibilities.
Situations beyond the control of pupils and/or parents/carers may impact on attendance. The School will, with the agreement and support of parents, work in partnership with external agencies to help resolve these situations.
The vast majority of pupils want to attend school to learn, to socialise with their peer group and to prepare themselves fully to take their place in society as well-rounded and responsible citizens with the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to contribute to the life and culture of their communities.
Please refer to https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/is-my-child-too-ill-for-school/ for guidance.
The link between attendance and attainment is clear:

In 2018/19, just 40% of persistently absent (PA) children in KS2 achieved expected KS2 standards, compared with 84% of pupils who were regular attenders.

But attendance is important for more than just attainment:

Regular school attendance can facilitate positive peer relationships, which is a protective factor for mental health and wellbeing.