School Attendance

Compass Attendance Codes explained

Due to recent updates from the Department of Education, the absences codes available for parents to use to explain student absences on Compass have changed. Please read the explanations carefully so you can choose the correct code when adding a Compass attendance note, or when signing in through Compass Kiosk at the school.

Medical or illness

Student is not at school because they are unwell due to a physical or mental health concern and this is impeding their ability to be at school and learn, have been injured or become unwell at school and have been sent home, are in hospital, have a chronic health condition or pain, have menstrual or pelvic pain, are receiving treatment for head lice.

Heathcare offsite

Student is not at school as they are attending an appointment, an appointment with a medical practitioner, a dental appointment, an allied health appointment or assessment (including NDIS appointment), counselling, another medical appointment offsite. 

Parent choice, school unapproved

Student is not at school and their parent/carer has:

• provided a reason for the absence (for example, shopping, visiting friends), but the school does not consider this a reasonable excuse

• provided a reason for the absence, but approval has not been sought in advance or in accordance with school policy or conditions of approval (for example, requirements for extended family holiday or school refusal or school can't)

• advised the school that their child is unable to attend due to a requirement to work in the family business (for example, farm work, in a restaurant or shop)

• advised the school that the student is attending private tutoring or a re-engagement program that is not organised by the school.

Bereavement

Student is not at school as they are attending a funeral, away due to the death of a friend or family member. 

Extended family holiday

Student is not at school as they are on an extended family holiday. Their parent/carer has received prior approval from the principal for the absence and a Student Absence Learning Plan has been considered.

Religious or Cultural Observance 

Student is not attending school due to religious or cultural observance.

Sorry Business 

(for Koorie students only)

Student is not at school as they are gathering with their family due to grief or loss within Koorie community.

Truancy, off site

Student is not at school and does not have permission to be absent. Their parent/carer:

• may be aware of the absence but does not approve, or

• does not know about the absence and believes the student is at school.

If you have any issues or concerns regarding the attendance of your child, please speak with Hugh McLaughlin on 9759 6222.