As part of our ongoing commitment to improving student learning, wellbeing, and engagement, we are placing a renewed focus on school attendance. Research consistently shows that regular attendance is one of the strongest predictors of a student’s academic achievement, social development, and overall success at school. When students attend school every day, they are better able to engage in their learning, build positive relationships, develop a sense of belonging, and establish the habits that support lifelong success.
Everyday Counts
Every day of learning matters. Regular attendance is essential for students to make the most of the opportunities available to them both inside and outside the classroom.
When students attend school every day, they are more likely to:
- Develop the knowledge and skills needed for academic success.
- Build strong friendships and positive relationships with peers and staff.
- Strengthen social and emotional skills such as communication, resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Feel connected to their school community and develop a strong sense of belonging.
- Establish positive routines and habits that support future success.
Even small amounts of absence can have a significant impact. Missing just one day of school each fortnight adds up to approximately four weeks of missed learning over the course of a year. These absences can make it more difficult for students to keep up with their learning, participate in important classroom experiences, and maintain strong connections with their peers and teachers.
Parent and Carer Responsibilities
Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting positive attendance. Under Victorian education requirements, parents are responsible for ensuring their child attends school every day unless there is a valid reason for absence.
If your child is absent from school, please notify the school as soon as possible by calling 9112 9500 and providing a brief explanation, and or recording the absence in Compass. Prompt communication helps us work together to support your child’s learning, wellbeing, and ongoing engagement with school.
When Should Students Stay Home?
Students should remain at home when they are genuinely unwell or have an approved absence. Wherever possible, we encourage families to:
- Schedule medical and dental appointments outside school hours.
- Plan family holidays during school holiday periods.
- Avoid unnecessary absences that may disrupt learning.
While occasional absences are sometimes unavoidable, regular attendance should always remain a priority.
Supporting Students to Attend
We understand that some students may experience challenges attending school, including anxiety, friendship difficulties, learning concerns, or other wellbeing issues. If your child is experiencing difficulties with attendance, we encourage you to contact your child’s Learning Community Leader or a member of the Wellbeing Team as soon as possible.
Early intervention is important. By working together, we can identify appropriate supports and strategies to help your child feel safe, connected, and successful at school.
How Families Can Help
Families can support positive attendance by:
- Talking positively about school and learning.
- Establishing consistent morning and bedtime routines.
- Ensuring children get adequate sleep each night.
- Preparing school bags, uniforms, and lunches the night before.
- Encouraging punctuality and celebrating positive attendance habits.
- Maintaining open communication with teachers and the school.
Working Together
Regular attendance is a shared responsibility between families and schools. By working together, we can ensure every student has the best opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential.
If you have any concerns about your child’s attendance, wellbeing, or engagement at school, please contact us. We are committed to working alongside families to support every student’s success.
Thank you for your ongoing support in ensuring that every day counts.
The Principal Team
