Our Approach to Attendance

At Templars, we believe that every child, every day, every chance matters.

Good attendance is about much more than numbers. Being in school regularly helps children to feel safe, belong, build strong relationships and make the most of every opportunity to learn and succeed. We want Templars to be a place where children want to be: a school where they feel known, valued and supported, and where the curriculum gives them exciting reasons to come through the door each day.

Our approach to attendance is simple:

We listen. We understand. We empathise. We support. But we do not accept avoidable absence.

We know that the reasons behind poor attendance can be complex. When attendance begins to fall, we will work with families to understand why, rather than making assumptions. We use attendance information carefully so that we know the individual circumstances behind absence and can offer the right support as early as possible.

At the same time, we have high expectations. Children need to attend school regularly and arrive on time if they are to thrive. Where there are genuine barriers, we will work alongside families to overcome them. Where absence is avoidable, we will challenge it and take the appropriate action.

Attendance is everyone’s business

Strong attendance depends on all of us. School leaders, teachers, pastoral staff, children, parents and carers all have a part to play.

At Templars:

• routines and expectations around attendance and punctuality are clear and consistent;

• attendance is noticed, discussed and supported from the earliest signs of concern;

• we look carefully at patterns of absence and understand the causes behind them;

• children and families are treated with respect and compassion;

• support is offered where there are barriers to attendance;

• good attendance and punctuality are recognised and encouraged; and

• we work with families and other professionals when additional support is needed.

Most importantly, we want every family to know that we are on your child’s side. If something is making it difficult for your child to attend school, please talk to us early. The sooner we understand what is happening, the sooner we can help.

Every day in school matters. Every day gives a child another opportunity to learn, belong, succeed and grow.

Mrs Hayley Bates

Attendance Officer