Attendance Matters 

Consistent school attendance from the early years is fundamental to ensuring children gain a strong foundation for later learning. 

Currently, our attendance rate is:

We aim to have our attendance rate reach 93%. 

In addition to the protective factors provided by enrolment and attendance, research indicates that students who regularly attend school achieve at higher levels than students who do not have regular attendance patterns.

School attendance contributes to a community that is well-educated, healthier, employed, financially independent and more empowered. Children and young people who do not regularly attend school miss out on planned learning experiences, sequences of instruction and class participation. The impact of this loss is compounded with each absence.

Students at risk from missing school

Students can be away from school for many reasons. Schools use categories to identify children and young people at risk. We make sure that appropriate follow-up and support is provided.

The department has adopted the following definitions consistent with best practice to identify students at risk through non-attendance: 

• Habitual non-attendance: a student has 5 to 9 days absent in a term for any reason.
• Chronic non-attendance: a student has 10 or more days absent in a term for any reason.

Students who are falling into the above two categories may be contacted by Leadership to discuss an Attendance Plan to look at ways to improve attendance at school. 

Exemption from school

In some circumstances, the principal has the authority to approve an exemption from school. This can be for up to 1 month. It can also be for up to 12 months for a family holiday. 

Before asking for an exemption, families should discuss this with the Leadership Team. Students must attend school until an exemption is approved. 

Our school requires an exemption for absences of more than 3 school days in a row. This does not include illness. 

Parents or caregivers must apply in writing. The principal will advise them of their decision. A copy of the exemption is kept in the student's record folder. Exemption forms are available from the front office. 

Exemptions of more than 1 month (excluding holidays) must be approved by the department's central office. 

Please note that exemptions are counted as student absences from school. 

If your child is absent or late for any reason, please notify the school in writing by messaging the class teacher on Class Dojo or emailing the school on: dl.0272.admin@schools.sa.edu.au