Hampshire County Council has shared a campaign encouraging families to do all they can to support regular school attendance for their children.
While rates of school attendance are improving locally, there is still more to do to match the levels typically seen before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Educational specialists advise that attending school every day, unless unwell, is best for children to ensure that the solid foundations for their future education and employment can be laid. It is also one of the best ways of protecting a child’s mental and physical health.
Regular attendance requires parents and carers, children, and school staff to work together. Staying connected with schools means parents and carers can quickly identify any potential difficulties their child may be facing and understand the support available. Families can take various steps to support school attendance, including:
creating opportunities for children to talk about their time at school
staying up to date with all communications from school
attending school open evenings and functions, and letting the school know if this is not possible due to barriers like work, childcare, transport, or health issues
checking that children understand and are regularly completing their homework, and speaking with their child’s school if they or their child are encountering issues with completing the homework that has been set
avoiding school absences where possible – for example, by arranging GP and dental appointments outside of school hours
building consistent bedtime routines – sleeping well, for the right length of time, helps improve energy levels, mood and concentration
establishing good morning routines at home to help children arrive at school on time, having had a good breakfast and ready to start the day
staying alert to signs of distress or challenging behaviours in response to going to school, and reaching out for help as soon as possible if there are any concerns
The County Council’s website provides advice and guidance on school attendance including parental responsibilities; how schools record attendance; and what to do if a child is unwell or expected to be away from school for a long period of time.
If you are concerned about or would like to speak to us about your child’s attendance please do contact your child’s tutor in the first instance.
