Why regular attendance is so important

Hounsome Fields Primary School is an inclusive school and we wish for all children to have the best educational experience they can. Regular school attendance is vital to ensure that all children achieve their full potential. Regular attendance serves as a key mechanism to support children’s educational, economic, and social outcomes.

Schools play an essential role in facilitating positive peer relationships, which significantly contribute to better mental health and overall wellbeing. By attending school consistently, children are afforded the opportunity to engage with their classmates, build friendships, and develop essential social skills that are critical to their future success. The relationships formed during these formative years are instrumental in shaping a child's character and resilience.

All children should aim to be in school 100% of the time, as this commitment not only enhances their academic performance but also fosters personal growth and development, pupils who are present in school are more likely to perform well academically, develop a sense of belonging within the school community and feel connected to their peers and teachers, which further supports their emotional and social development.

Why is it so important to attend every day?

Learning is a progressive activity; each day’s lessons build upon those of the previous days. Classes also use discussions, demonstrations, experiments and participation as part of the daily learning activities and these cannot be made up by those who are absent.

If a child is frequently absent, they risk falling behind in their learning. This disruption in their education can lead to gaps in knowledge and will hinder their academic progress. Therefore, attendance is fundamentally important in ensuring that young people become successful learners.

Late to School - every minute counts

Getting your child to school on time matters. It is important that your child arrives to school on time. If they are late and miss the register, it may be recorded as an unauthorised absence. The school gate is open for pupils at 8.35am and registration closes at 8.45am. 

5 minutes late each day = 3 days missed from school = 15 missed lessons each year 

10 minutes late each day = 6 days missed from school = 30 missed lessons each year

15 minutes late each day = 9 days missed from school = 45 missed lessons each year

Every day in school makes a difference to your child’s future

Attendance matters to every child, every day

Leave of Absence Requests

Penalty Notices

Attendance Awards

Attendance Statistics

Additional Information

Please click here for our school Attendance Policy.

To see our latest Attendance Newsletter click here.

To access leave of absence forms for appointments and exceptional circumstances please click here.