School attendance

When it comes to attending school, you should remember:

• Low attendance means a lower chance of getting into further education and employment
• Good attendance means higher grades and better chances in life
• Missing the odd day can become a habit
• Every lesson in school matters and if you have time off you may find it difficult to catch up
• Absences for medical appointments should be requested as far in advance as possible and your parents / carers should try to make routine appointments (for example dental check ups) during school holidays or after school hours
• School is a great place to have fun and make new friends and it can give you improved confidence
• There is a strong link between non-attendance and street crime and / or substance abuse
• Attending school improves your health. It encourages good social skills, helps you create friendships and will also help you physically through regular exercise
• Lateness equals lost learning. Five minutes every day adds up to over three days lost each year

It can be tricky to decide whether your child is too ill for school. For guidance see, NHS: Is my child too ill for school.