THE POWER OF PRESENCE: Regular Attendance at St Mary MacKillop College

At the heart of every child’s learning journey lies a simple but powerful habit: showing up. Daily attendance is more than just being physically present; it’s about being prepared, supported, and ready to succeed. As partners in your child’s education, families play a crucial role in nurturing this habit at home.

Regular attendance supports academic progress, social development, and emotional well-being. Every missed day is a missed opportunity for growth, connection, and learning. When students are present and engaged, they benefit from:

• Enhanced Learning: Consistent attendance allows students to fully participate in lessons, discussions, and activities, leading to a deeper understanding of the curriculum.
• Social Connections: School is a place where students build friendships, learn to collaborate, and develop essential social skills. 
• Emotional Wellbeing: A consistent routine and a sense of belonging contribute to emotional security and overall well-being.

At St Mary MacKillop College, we aim for an attendance rate of no less than 80% for all students. For our VCE students, attendance is even more critical, with a required attendance rate of at least 90%. These expectations are in place to ensure that all students have the best possible opportunity to succeed.

We recognise that some students may face challenges that affect their attendance. If your child is facing ongoing challenges that affect attendance, please don’t hesitate to contact their Homeroom Teacher or House Leader. They can provide guidance, support, and connect you with additional resources within the school, such as our wellbeing team. When your child is absent from school, please notify us as soon as possible either by:

• Phone: Leave a message on the school's attendance line, clearly stating your child's name, year level, and the reason for their absence.
• PAM (Parent Access Module): Log in to PAM and follow the prompts to report your child's absence. This is a quick and efficient way to notify the school.

Parents play a vital role in fostering strong attendance habits. Here are some simple ways you can support your child's attendance:

• Morning Routines: Create a calm and consistent start to the day with positive energy and reliable structure. 
• Prioritise Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough sleep each night. 
• Open Communication: Let us know about any challenges your child is facing. 
• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge attendance wins at home—whether it’s arriving on time or overcoming a tough morning. 

At St Mary MacKillop College, regular attendance is key to student success. By working together, families and the school can create a supportive environment that encourages all students to attend regularly, engage fully, and reach their full potential. 

Luke Crow, Jesse McDonald, Joel Murphy, Jennifer Salvo & Jeremy Wood

House Leader Team