School attendance and welfare

Support and advice in Powys

The importance of good school attendance for all learners

Regular school attendance has a positive effect on children and young people and a strong impact on the outcomes for children and young people. Regular attendance supports the development of literacy and numeracy skills, and understanding needed for further study and success in the workplace. Examination outcomes link strongly to attendance rates: lessons missed can mean missing key information, skills and ideas.

Good attendance also has a positive effect on emotional and physical wellbeing. The more time a child spends with other children in the classroom and as part of other school activities, the more chance they have of making friends, of feeling included, and of developing social skills, confidence and self-esteem.

What can I do to make sure that my child attends school?

We understand that sometimes getting your children up and out on time every morning can be difficult, particularly if your child does not want to go - however every effort should be made to support attendance. You can do this by:

• Being aware of your school attendance policy and named contacts.
• Ensuring good term time routines, sleep hygiene is critical in supporting good attendance.
• Planning and preparing in advance for the day / week ahead.
• Being on time.
• Taking an interest in your child's education and creating a positive home learning culture, where education is valued.

What can I do to support my child if they are unhappy at school?

If you suspect your child is unhappy or they are already missing school, early intervention is key. You should try the following:

• Talk to your child and identify what the issues are.
• Offer support to address these issues.
• Contact the school directly and request advice and support. Agree a plan of action with regular review dates.
• Make sure your child knows that you do not approve of them missing school for any reason but be alert to any perceived issues.

If your child does miss school - contact the school directly and work with them to address the issues quickly.

What will the school do if my child has poor attendance?

The school will work with you directly and maintain regular contact offering continued support, advice and guidance.

The school will maintain an appropriate attendance register - absence may be authorised or unauthorised.

The school may offer additional multi-agency support and/or make direct referrals to other agencies and/or the Local Authority for further support, advice and guidance. This may include a referral to the Education Welfare Service.

Education Welfare Service

All schools in Powys are served by a small team of Education Welfare Officers, who provide a link between the schools, education services, families, children and young people. The main task of an Education Welfare Officer is to encourage and improve whole school attendance, support individual learners and their families to access a suitable education, and discharge the Local Authority's legal responsibilities.

The Education Welfare Service can offer advice, guidance, support and signposting to other services, working closely with health services, careers, youth inclusion, police, and social services.

For further information and advice please contact the Education Welfare Service team.

School Welfare Contacts