Wellbeing

Everyday Counts: Attendance, Wellbeing, and Partnership 

Article by Nala Tubb, Head of Character and Student Wellbeing 

Regular school attendance plays an important role in a young person’s academic progress, wellbeing, social connection, and sense of belonging within the school community. 

While attendance is often discussed in terms of learning, its impact reaches much further than the classroom. Being present at school helps students build routines, maintain friendships, develop confidence, and remain connected to the people and supports around them. At the same time, we also recognise that attendance challenges can be complex. 

For some students, occasional reluctance to attend school may be linked to: 

• friendship difficulties, 

• anxiety, 

• academic pressure, 

• emotional wellbeing, 

• family circumstances,

• health concerns,

• or challenges navigating particular stages of development. 

At Overnewton, we understand there is rarely a “one-size-fits-all” explanation or solution. 

Transitions can also be a time when some students need additional support. Returning to school after holidays can involve readjusting to routines, reconnecting with peers, re-establishing learning habits, and finding confidence in the rhythm of the school day again. 

These adjustments are a normal part of growth and development, and with encouragement, connection, and consistent support, most students are able to rebuild their sense of belonging and confidence. 

Families can support this transition by helping students re-establish predictable routines, encouraging positive conversations about returning to school, celebrating small steps forward, and reminding young people of the relationships and opportunities waiting for them within the school community. 

If a student experiences some resistance or difficulty transitioning back into term, the first point of contact should be their classroom teacher, homeroom teacher, or mentor. These trusted adults know the student within the school environment and can work alongside families to understand what may be contributing to the concern and identify helpful strategies early. 

One of the most important things families can do if attendance begins to become difficult is to reach out early. Often, small concerns can grow when students or families feel they need to manage them alone. Open communication allows schools and families to work together proactively and supportively before challenges become more significant. 

Our Student Services Team works closely with students, families, teachers, and leaders across the College to help support student wellbeing, engagement, and connection to school life. Sometimes this support may involve practical adjustments, wellbeing support, mentoring, check-ins, or collaborative planning with families. Importantly, seeking support is not a sign that something has “gone wrong.” It is a positive and proactive step that reflects the shared partnership between home and school. 

At the College, we strongly believe student wellbeing is most effectively supported when families and schools work together with openness, consistency, and trust. No family should feel they need to navigate attendance challenges alone. Whether concerns are large or small, early communication helps us better understand how we can support students to feel safe, connected, confident, and engaged in their learning journey. 

Ultimately, attendance is not simply about being present at school — it is about helping young people remain connected to learning, relationships, opportunity, and community.