Wellbeing

Wellbeing - School Attendance

On Monday 17 August, we had the opportunity to attend a conference focused on the importance of school attendance. It was a valuable reminder of just how much regular attendance can contribute to a child’s wellbeing, learning and sense of connection to school.

School attendance can feel like such a natural part of childhood. After the early years, children begin their school journey in Prep and, over the following twelve years, gradually grow from little children into young adults. Throughout those years, however, family life is busy and can bring many changes, challenges and competing demands. We understand that there will be times when attending school simply isn’t possible — children become unwell, families experience difficult circumstances, appointments need to happen and sometimes life just doesn’t go according to plan.

At the same time, the conference reminded us that regular attendance really does matter. Each day at school provides opportunities for learning, connection, relationships, routine and a sense of belonging. When children are regularly away, arrive late or leave early, they can miss important learning and social experiences, and returning to school can sometimes feel a little harder.

There are many positive benefits to regular attendance:

Research shows that regular attendance is linked with stronger academic achievement.
Children benefit from the security and predictability of a consistent routine.
They are less likely to miss important learning and feel they need to catch up.
They have more opportunities to connect, play and socialise with their friends.
Being at school each day helps children develop a strong sense of belonging and connection to their classroom and school community.

Of course, attendance is not about perfection. There will always be genuine reasons for children to be absent, and families need to make decisions that support their circumstances and wellbeing. Rather, it is about considering where we can make small, practical choices that support regular attendance when possible.

For example, families might consider:

Establishing consistent sleep and wake-up routines.
Scheduling dental and medical appointments outside school hours where possible.
Planning family holidays during school holiday periods where practical.
Arriving at school by 8:45am, allowing children time to greet friends, settle themselves and be ready to begin the day.

These may seem like small things, but small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference. They communicate to children that school, learning, friendships and their place within the school community are valued.

We also recognise and appreciate how much families already do to get children to school each day. Mornings can be challenging, routines can be difficult to establish, and every family has different circumstances to navigate. Our intention is not to add pressure, but to encourage and support families wherever we can.

Together, we can help our children experience school as a place where they feel connected, supported, safe and ready to learn — one day at a time.

Juliette Hancke

Wellbeing Leader