By Debbie Clarke-Basrai (Trust Safeguarding & Attendance Lead)
This year, attendance remains a priority across our Trust, and we are proud to share that our schools’ overall attendance is showing positive trends, with several schools already exceeding national averages. These improvements reflect the hard work of colleagues, pupils, parents and carers working together to make regular attendance for all children a priority.
School Attendance – The National Picture
Since the pandemic, schools across England have faced a significant challenge with attendance. National data shows that absence rates remain higher than before COVID-19, with persistent absence (missing 10% or more of school days) affecting nearly one in five pupils in some areas. In response, the government has shifted its tone: rather than focusing on penalties, the emphasis is now on support and partnership. Schools are encouraged to work closely with families to identify barriers early and provide practical help. The message is clear—every day in school counts, and improving attendance is about collaboration, not punishment.
Why Attendance Matters
- Academic Success – Research shows that pupils with 95-100% attendance are almost twice as likely to achieve a Grade 5 or above in English and Maths than those with 90-95% attendance. Only 35% of pupils with below 85% attendance achieve above Grade 5 in their GCSEs.
- Friendships and Social Skills – Being present in school helps pupils build strong relationships with their peers.
- Confidence and Belonging – Daily routines help pupils feel a part of our school communities.
- Good Habits for Life – Attendance regularly builds resilience, discipline and future success.
Top Tips for Parents and Carers
- Establish a Routine – Consistent bedtimes and morning routines make getting to school easier and avoids lateness.
- Have a back-up plan – Arrange alternatives for school runs should your usual transport not be available.
- Communicate Early – If your child is struggling, let the school know straight away. We are here to help!
- Celebrate Attendance – Praise and encourage your child for attending every day. Positive reinforcement goes a long way!
- Know when to keep your child home – Unsure if your child is too ill for school? Speak with the school Attendance Officer, or check the NHS guidance (Is my child too ill for school? – NHS) to determine whether your child can attend, and how long they need to be absent for.
How we can help
- Monitoring – Attendance Officers will monitor your child’s attendance and contact families should concerns arise.
- Support – If you have any concerns regarding your child’s ability to attend school regularly, we can offer support and work in partnership with you to remove barriers, and/or signpost outside agencies to offer support.
- Attendance Initiatives – Our schools offer a range of initiatives to help with attendance, including breakfast clubs, celebrations and incentives. Please speak with the Attendance Lead at your child’s school to find out more.
Term-Time Holidays – What’s the Big Deal?
At The Golden Thread Alliance we understand that family time matters and recognise the benefits of holidays for children, however, taking holidays during term time has a big impact on teaching and learning. This academic year so far, pupils at our schools have lost 1,250 days of learning due to term-time holidays – that’s the equivalent of 6 ½ full school years! There are 190 school days each year, and 175 days of holidays – plenty of time to enjoy family breaks without interrupting your child’s education. The law is clear; headteachers can only authorise leave in exceptional circumstances. Despite a recent petition to allow up to 10 days leave, the government confirmed that rules have not changed, and parents and carers who take their children on unauthorised holidays continue to risk a fine of £80-160 per parent, per child, or court action on the third offence within a three-year period. Please help us to give every child the best chance to succeed by planning holidays during school breaks.
At The Golden Thread Alliance, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for helping us to make that a reality and your continued support in making attendance to school a priority.
