At Castlemorton C.E. Primary School, we are committed to ensuring that every child receives the best possible education. Regular attendance is crucial for our pupils to make the most of their learning opportunities and to thrive both academically and socially. Our school aligns with the 2024 statutory guidance, Working Together to Improve School Attendance, which outlines the shared responsibility amongst schools, families, and local authorities to promote good attendance and address any barriers to regular school attendance.

Why Attendance Matters

Every school day counts. Research shows that even a small number of missed days can impact a child’s academic progress and overall experience at school. Being in school not only enhances academic achievement but also supports children’s social development and emotional well-being. At Castlemorton, we want to equip our pupils with the skills and resilience they need for a successful future, and regular attendance is key to this goal.

Our Responsibilities

Under the 2024 guidance, our school takes a proactive approach to attendance by:

• Monitoring and Recording Attendance: We track attendance daily, ensuring that we are aware of any emerging concerns. Unexplained absences are followed up promptly.

• Engaging and Supporting Families: We work closely with parents and carers to address attendance issues early, offering support where necessary. Our goal is to work collaboratively to overcome obstacles that may prevent a child from attending school regularly.

• Working with External Agencies: When needed, we coordinate with the local authority and other relevant services to ensure a joined-up approach to improving attendance.

Parents’ and Carers’ Responsibilities

Parents and carers play a critical role in ensuring their children attend school every day and on time. As outlined in the 2024 guidance, parents are legally required to ensure their child’s regular attendance and to inform the school promptly of any reasons for absence. We ask that you:

• Ensure your child arrives at school on time and ready to learn.

• Inform the school by 9:30 am on the first day of absence if your child is unable to attend and provide any necessary medical evidence if requested.

• Avoid taking holidays during term time. Leave will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances.

Our Approach to Addressing Absence

We understand that there may be genuine reasons for absence, and we aim to provide support tailored to each family’s needs. However, we will take action if attendance becomes a concern, as detailed in the guidance:

• Early Intervention: We aim to identify patterns or issues as early as possible to prevent further absences. This may include meetings with parents or creating support plans.

• Formal Measures: If absences continue despite our support, we may involve the local authority to explore further measures, including legal action if necessary (more information can be found in the letter to parent below).

Rewards and Recognition

In school, we celebrate and encourage good attendance through our "Attendance Ted" award.  We regularly recognise classes who maintain excellent or improved attendance. This award helps foster a positive attitude toward being present and engaged at school.

Support for Families

We are here to help. If you are facing challenges that affect your child’s attendance, please reach out to our office or speak with a member of staff. Our aim is to work together to find a solution that benefits your child’s education and well-being.

For more details on the 2024 statutory guidance, Working Together to Improve School Attendance, or to discuss attendance matters, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Together, we can ensure that every day counts!