Attendance 

Over the next few weeks, we will be providing some tips and ideas from the Department of Education for supporting student attendance. Setting up good attendance patterns can lead to future success and can help students feel more engaged and connected at school.

TOP ATTENDANCE TIPS FOR PARENTS

• Schools want to work in partnership with parents – act early if you have any concerns by contacting your child’s school and asking for advice and support
• Remember that every day counts
• There is no safe number of days for missing school – each day a student misses puts them behind, and can affect their educational outcomes and their social connectedness
• Talk positively about school and the importance of attending every day
• Open and prompt communication with your child’s school about all absences is a good idea 
• Avoid making routine medical and dental appointments during the school day or planning family holidays during the term
• Seek help from your school if you are concerned about your child’s attendance and wellbeing. Schools want to work in partnership with parents to support student attendance and wellbeing

USEFUL WEBSITES/CONTACTS

• Department of Education and Training - https://www.vic.gov.au/attendance-and-missing-school 
• Kids Matter - www.kidsmatter.edu.au  
• Youth Beyond Blue - www.youthbeyondblue.com.au 
• Headspace - www.headspace.org.au 
• Reach Out – www.reachout.com 
• Raising Children Network - www.raisingchildren.net.au  
• Kids helpline - 1800 55 1800 24 hours a day, seven days a week and web counselling 
• Parentline – 1300 30 1300 (8am to 10pm seven days a week) and web counselling Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11am and 2pm