Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS)

Every Day Counts

At Whittlesea Primary School, we recognise the important role regular attendance plays in every child's learning and wellbeing. We are committed to working together with families to ensure students are at school, learning alongside their peers, building relationships, and making the most of every opportunity.

Attending school every day gives children access to the experiences that matter most; learning, friendship, fun, and opportunities that help shape their future.

Please know that we understand that there are times when children need to be absent from school. However, where possible, we encourage families to schedule holidays, medical appointments, and dental visits outside of school hours to minimise interruptions to learning.

If your child is well enough to attend school but is feeling anxious about friendships, schoolwork, or assessments, we encourage them to attend. Staying home can often increase these worries and may lead to ongoing attendance challenges.

Victoria's Department of Education outlines specific risk categories based on how much school a child misses:

0–6 Days Absent (90–100% Attendance)

This is considered the normal attendance range. Students who attend school regularly are best placed to fully benefit from classroom learning and school experiences.

7–10 Days Absent (80–90% Attendance)

This is below the expected attendance level. Over time, missing this amount of school can add up to more than a year of lost learning throughout a child's education.

11–20 Days Absent (70–80% Attendance)

This level of attendance can have a significant impact on a child's learning. Students may miss the equivalent of up to two years of schooling by the end of Year 10.

More Than 20 Days Absent (Below 70% Attendance)

This is considered very poor attendance or chronic absenteeism. Missing this much school can result in a student losing more than two-and-a-half years of learning by the end of Year 10.

If your child is experiencing difficulties attending school, please speak with their classroom teacher or a member of our Wellbeing Team. We are here to help and can work with you to provide support.

We understand that families face many daily challenges in getting children to school. If your child is unable to attend, please notify the school as soon as possible via Compass or by calling the office on (03) 9716 2140.

Remember .. Every Day Counts.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone, stay warm!