Attendance

High Expectations for High Achievers – 'Making Excellence a Habit'

We are committed to ensuring that all families understand the importance of 100% attendance. Attendance in school is vital for academic success. Studies have shown that pupils who attend less than 96% of the time fail to achieve 5 grade 4 and above at GCSE and therefore are denied the chance to a successful, fulfilling life.

For these reasons, we monitor attendance patterns and hold parents to account where necessary. We expect all pupils to attend at all times, even if they are feeling unwell.

Benefits of School Attendance

Good attendance at school is not just valuable, it’s essential. Going to school is directly linked to improved exam performance which should in turn lead to further learning opportunities and better job prospects. As well as this, going to school helps to develop:

  • Friendships
  • Social skills
  • Team values
  • Life skills
  • Cultural awareness
  • Career pathways

Attendance

Punctuality

William Shakespeare famously said, “Better three hours soon than a minute late”. Thus implying that one would rather be early and wait than be late. Arriving to school on time each day ensures that our students do not miss vital learning and announcement shared within their Fleet time. Learning the importance of punctuality and developing effective habits to ensure that they arrive on time will benefit them when they move to the world for work in the future. 

Key Information:

  • Students to arrive by 8:20am, ready for early learning at 8:25am.
  • Arriving after 8:30am means that a late mark will be recorded on your child’s attendance and they must attend a late detention.
  • Our Fleet Time provides our students with bespoke learning opportunities including reading, Maths and topical discussion with their Fleet Captain.
  • It is vital that students arrive on time to engage in all important timetabled sessions. 
  • Persistent lateness will result in contact home from the Academy.

Punctuality

How Parents Can Support Attendance and Punctuality: 

  • Establish a good routine in the mornings and evenings so your child is prepared for the school day ahead.
  • Make sure your child goes to school regularly and follows the school rules.
  • Ensure your child arrives at school on time.
  • Arrange dental and medical appointments outside school hours when possible.
  • Always inform the school if your child is absent due to illness – this should be followed up with a written note when your child returns to school.
  • Take truancy seriously – if your child is not attending school as you expect they may be putting themselves at risk – Who are they with? What are they doing?
  • Take family holidays outside term time.
  • Talk to your child about school and take an interest in their school work (including homework).
  • Attend parent evenings and school events.
  • Praise and reward your child’s achievements at school.
  • Discuss any problems or difficulties with the school – staff are there to help and will be supportive.