Wellbeing

The importance of attendance - Every day counts

At our school, we know that regular attendance is one of the most important factors in your child’s success. Coming to school each day helps students build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, develop friendships, and feel connected to their learning community. The Victorian Department of Education emphasises that daily attendance supports not only academic progress, but also social and emotional development, including confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. 

Learning is a sequential process. When students miss school, they often miss key concepts that can be difficult to catch up on later. Even a small number of absences can add up over time and impact both achievement and wellbeing. Regular attendance helps students stay engaged, maintain routines, and make the most of all learning opportunities.

Parent/carer responsibilities

Under Victorian legislation, parents and carers are responsible for ensuring their child attends school every day it is open, and for providing an explanation for any absence. Schools are required to record all absences and determine whether the reason provided is reasonable. If a student is absent and no explanation is received, the school will contact families on the same day to ensure student safety and wellbeing.

Explained vs unexplained absences

All absences must be explained.  If a reason is not provided, the absence will be recorded as unexplained.  Ongoing or frequent unexplained absences will be followed up by the school, and may involve additional support or formal processes to improve attendance.

We understand that children may be unwell or have unavoidable appointments. Communication is key—please keep us informed so we can support your child’s learning and wellbeing.

Extended absences and family holidays

If your child will be absent for an extended period (for example, family holidays), this must be approved in advance by our Principal, Josh Sheffield. Please note that not all extended absences can be approved, and families are encouraged to plan holidays during school vacation periods wherever possible.

Acknowledging that students can't always attend

We recognise that there are times when children cannot attend school due to illness, medical appointments or exceptional circumstances. Our priority is always to work in partnership with families to support each child. If your child is experiencing ongoing attendance challenges, please reach out so we can provide support.

How to log an absence on Compass

Our school uses Compass Education to manage attendance. Logging an absence is quick and easy:

• Log into Compass via the app or website 
• Select your child’s profile 
• Click “Add Attendance Note” 
• Enter the reason, date and time of the absence 
• Click Save 

Where possible, absences should be entered before the absence occurs. 

If an absence has not been pre-entered, families will receive a notification prompting them to provide an explanation.

Working together

Strong attendance is a shared responsibility between home and school. By ensuring your child attends regularly and communicating openly about absences, you are helping set them up for success.

Resources for parents

https://www.vic.gov.au/attendance-and-missing-school

https://raisingchildren.net.au/school-age/school-learning/school-refusal/school-refusal

https://happyfamilies.com.au/articles/a-slice-of-advice-on-kids-chucking-a-sickie

If you have any questions or need support with attendance, please don’t hesitate to contact the school office.

Keeping kids safe - a program for parents