Attendance

Why Attendance Matters

Connect attendance directly to the school’s core vision and values.

"Learn today to change tomorrow."

Every day a child spends at South Petherwin counts toward building their confidence, motivation, and potential.

Academic Impact: Consistency is key. When children miss school, they don't just miss a lesson—they miss the foundational steps required for future learning.
Social & Emotional Growth: Regular attendance helps children build stable friendship groups, develop social skills, and feel truly part of our school community.

Reporting Absences & Policies

Sickness: If your child is too unwell to attend, please contact the main office before 9:15 AM on the first day of absence.
Medical Appointments: Please arrange routine dental and medical check-ups outside of school hours. If unavoidable, children are expected to return to school after the appointment.
Term-Time Holidays: Headteachers cannot authorize school absences for family holidays. For unique, exceptional circumstances, parents must speak directly to Mr. Avery prior to making any travel arrangements.

Whole school Attendance Warning Letter.docx.pdf

The South Petherwin Registration

A clean visual schedule to eliminate confusion regarding morning routines:

8:40 AM – Playground supervision begins. Staff are on duty, and children are safe to arrive.
8:55 AM – The whistle sounds. Pupils line up in their classes and are collected by staff.
9:05 AM – Morning registration is taken and the first learning session starts.
9:10 AM – Arrival after this time is officially marked as "Late".

NHS guidance sheet

To foster a collaborative approach, use this highly scannable bulleted list to guide parents on creating positive routines:

Prep the Night Before: Lay out uniforms, pack school bags, and prepare water bottles or lunchboxes ahead of time to eliminate morning panic.
Protect Sleep Routines: Establish a consistent bedtime that limits screen time. A well-rested child is much easier to wake up in time for the 8:55 AM whistle.
Speak Positively About School: Keep communication about school enthusiastic. Ask your child what they are looking forward to, or what their favorite part of the week is.
Be Mindful of Minor Illnesses: Mild sniffles, a clearing cold, or tiredness shouldn't automatically mean a day off. If they are fit enough to play, they are usually fit enough to learn. (Note: Children prescribed new antibiotics should stay home for the first 24 hours to monitor for side effects). Please see the above information poster: 'Is my child too ill for school?'
Communicate Early: If your child is anxious or reluctant to come to school, don't wait for the issue to grow. Reach out to their class teacher or the school office as soon as possible so we can build a supportive plan together.

Need Support with Attendance? We are here to help. Contact the main office on 01566 776363 or speak directly with your child's class teacher to discuss how we can work together.

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