School Success Starts with Attendance

Dear Saltwater Families,

As the year progresses and the end of term approaches, it can be tempting to relax routines or take an early start to the holidays. However, consistent attendance and punctuality remain just as important in the final weeks of school as they are at the beginning of the year.

Why Attendance Matters Year-Round

Every school day is carefully planned to provide valuable learning opportunities for your child. Even at the end of the term, lessons, activities, and experiences are designed to consolidate learning, build confidence, and prepare students for the next stage of their education.

Missing school—even for a few days—can have lasting effects:

Disrupted Learning: Lessons often build on each other, and missing even one day can cause gaps in understanding.
Missed Social Connections: School is not just about academics; it’s also where children develop friendships and social skills.
Preparation for the Future: The final weeks of school are often used to recap and reflect on the year, providing a foundation for success in the next academic year.

The Importance of Arriving on Time

Punctuality is a key life skill that sets children up for success. Arriving late can cause a stressful start to the day, not just for the child but for the whole class, as teachers need to repeat instructions or adjust their plans.

When children arrive on time, they:

Start the day feeling calm and prepared.
Participate fully in morning routines and activities that set the tone for learning.
Develop good habits they will carry into adulthood.

Classroom doors open at 8:20am for continuous entry. School officially starts at 8:30am. Any time after 8.30, students need a late pass to attend class. Unfortunately attendance rolls are often mismarked due to students not getting late passes. This then leads to unexplained absences and texts home to say that your child isn't at school. The late pass system is a way to ensure all students are not missed when marking the roll if arriving late (from 8:31am onwards)

Building Good Attendance and Punctuality Habits

Here are some practical ways you can support your child:

Set a Routine: Establish regular bedtimes and wake-up times, even during weekends.
Prepare Ahead: Organize uniforms, school bags, and lunches the night before.
Talk About the Importance of School: Help your child understand why attending and being on time matters.
Plan Holidays Carefully: Avoid taking holidays during term time, even towards the end of the school year.

The School's Role

We’re here to support you! If your child is struggling with attendance or punctuality, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can address any challenges and ensure your child benefits fully from their school experience.

Remember, every day counts. Together, let’s make the most of the opportunities that school offers—right up until the very last day!

Thank you for your continued support in upholding our attendance expectations and policies.