Wellbeing

Every Day Counts: Why Consistent Attendance Matters

Attending school every day is more than just ticking a box—it sets the foundation for children’s success, well-being and confidence. Below is why it matters, especially at the primary years.

The Victorian Context

• In Victoria, children aged 6 to 17 years are legally required to attend school, unless an exemption applies. www2.education.vic.gov.au+2education.vic.gov.au+2
• The Department of Education’s guidelines emphasise that daily attendance helps students stay on track socially, developmentally and academically. www2.education.vic.gov.au+3www2.education.vic.gov.au+3www2.education.vic.gov.au+3
• Schools monitor attendance closely and implement support when absences become frequent. www2.education.vic.gov.au+3www2.education.vic.gov.au+3www2.education.vic.gov.au+3

The Benefits of Daily Attendance for Well-Being & Mental Health

For Children

1. Stronger social connections & sense of belonging

   Being present every day helps children build friendships, be part of classroom routines, and feel included. That sense of belonging is protective for emotional health. beyou.edu.au+2edresearch.edu.au+2

2. Emotional stability & routine

   Predictable days and consistent routines support kids’ emotional regulation, reducing anxiety about “falling behind.” mentallyhealthyschools.org.uk+2Anna Freud+2

3. Better engagement & confidence

   When children attend regularly, they are more able to participate in learning, ask questions, and feel competent. This reinforces self-worth and motivation. edresearch.edu.au+1

4. Early detection and support

   Regular attendance lets teachers and well-being staff notice when a child is struggling, academically or emotionally, and intervene early. Anna Freud+2edresearch.edu.au+2

For Parents & Families

• Peace of mind

  Knowing your child is in class daily and connected to peers and teachers reduces stress and helps you spot any concerns early.

• Stronger home–school partnership

  Regular attendance promotes open communication. If challenges emerge (anxiety, sleep issues, family needs), the school and parents can work together to support the child. www2.education.vic.gov.au+2edresearch.edu.au+2

• Reducing setbacks

  Missing many days, even “just a bit”, can accumulate to gaps in learning, which may increase pressure on both child and family to “catch up.” www2.education.vic.gov.au+3www2.education.vic.gov.au+3edresearch.edu.au+3

Tips for Making Regular Attendance More Achievable

• Schedule non-urgent appointments outside school hours or during holidays
• Communicate with the school early if your child is anxious or reluctant
• Prepare routines (bedtime, morning, packing the night before)
• Make connections by encouraging your child to engage in school clubs or group learning
• When absence is unavoidable, work with the teacher on a “catch-up plan”

By valuing and supporting daily attendance, we nurture not only academic progress but also our children’s mental and emotional resilience. Let’s work together to make every school day count.

If any families are facing challenges with attendance, or children are experiencing anxiety about school, please reach out, our wellbeing team is here to partner with you.