Kia ora Whānau,

There have been some changes to attendance requirements, and we are now required to have an official Attendance Policy, which I am sharing with you today.

Ensuring regular attendance is essential for your child’s learning and success. The Ministry of Education has introduced a stepped response to attendance, which outlines the actions taken when attendance drops below expected levels.

To support parents in understanding these steps, we have created a simple visual guide outlining how attendance concerns are addressed and what support is available.

We appreciate your partnership in ensuring all tamariki have the best opportunity to learn and succeed. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Stepped Attendance Response – A Guide for Parents

Step 1: Early Identification (90-100% Attendance)

Regular attendance is expected.
If attendance drops below 90%, teachers will check in with students and whānau to understand any issues.
School may provide support or guidance to improve attendance.

Step 2: Initial Concern (80-90% Attendance)

If attendance continues to decline, the school will contact whānau to discuss concerns.
A plan may be developed to support attendance improvement.
Additional support or referrals may be suggested.

Step 3: Moderate Concern (70-80% Attendance)

A formal meeting with whānau may be arranged to discuss barriers to attendance.
School support services or external agencies may be involved.
A clear action plan is developed and monitored.

Step 4: Serious Concern (Below 70% Attendance)

Attendance is now considered a significant concern.
Referrals to external agencies (e.g., Attendance Service, Oranga Tamariki) may be made.
Further support strategies are put in place to help improve attendance.

Step 5: Formal Intervention

If attendance does not improve, legal steps may be considered (MOE will decide to take legal steps at this point).
The school and external agencies will work together with the family to find a solution.
Ongoing support will be provided to encourage regular attendance.

Why Attendance Matters:

Missing just one day a fortnight adds up to a whole year of lost learning by Year 10.
Regular attendance builds good learning habits, friendships, and success in school.

How You Can Help:

Set a consistent morning routine.
Make sure your child gets enough sleep.
Communicate with the school if your child is unwell or facing challenges.
Avoid taking holidays during the school period

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me.

Ngā mihi,

Cassey Prentice

Ridgeview School Newsletter

Respect, Excellence, Positive Relationships

Issue 4 · 04 Mar 2025

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