Deputy Principals

At Francis Greenway High School, we are committed to supporting every student to achieve their personal best. One of the most important factors in student success is regular school attendance. Students need to be at school to learn, grow and thrive.

Why School Attendance Matters

Attending school every day helps students:

• Build strong literacy and numeracy skills

• Develop friendships and social confidence

• Strengthen resilience and responsibility

• Stay connected to teachers and learning programs

• Improve their academic results and future opportunities

Even missing one day a fortnight adds up. Over a school year, that’s nearly four weeks of learning lost. Over several years, the impact becomes significant.

Our Attendance Expectation – Over 90%

In line with the expectations of the NSW Department of Education, students are expected to maintain an attendance rate of above 90%. This means attending school every day unless there is a valid reason such as illness or approved leave.

Students with attendance below 90% are considered at risk of disengagement, and our school works closely with families to provide support where needed.

Attendance and the Law

School attendance is compulsory for students in New South Wales until they complete Year 10, and then until they turn 17 (unless engaged in approved education, training or employment). Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly.

How Families Can Help

Families play a key role in promoting positive attendance habits. You can support your child by:

• Establishing consistent morning routines

• Ensuring punctual arrival each day

• Booking appointments outside school hours where possible

• Communicating promptly with the school regarding absences

• Encouraging a positive attitude towards school

We’re Here to Support

If your child is experiencing challenges that are impacting attendance — whether academic, social or wellbeing-related — please reach out. Our teachers, wellbeing team and executive staff are here to help. Early support makes a big difference. Let’s work together to ensure every student attends school every day and maintains attendance above 90%.

Every day counts. Every lesson matters. Every student succeeds

Celebrating Success: Our Rewards Excursions

At our school, we believe that effort, commitment and positive behaviour should be celebrated. One of the ways we recognise our outstanding students is through our Rewards Excursions – a highlight of the school year for both students and staff.

These excursions are offered to students who maintain attendance above 80% and who consistently demonstrate our school’s core values of Respect, Responsibility, Commitment and Cooperation. Whether it’s showing kindness in the playground, working hard in class, or representing our school with pride, these students model what it means to be part of our learning community. Students who receive a Formal Caution or are placed on suspension will not be considered for Rewards Excursions (effective 2/3/2026). Rewards Excursions are more than just a fun day out – they build connection, celebrate success, and reinforce the message that positive choices lead to positive opportunities.