At Thatcham Park, good attendance is an essential part of living out our vision:
“Encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

We want every child to feel confident, supported and ready to learn each day. Regular attendance helps children to build strong relationships, make good progress and fully take part in school life.

Why attendance matters

Being in school every day gives children the best opportunity to succeed. It supports their learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. Good attendance is also closely linked to positive long-term outcomes and future opportunities.

We work hard to create a welcoming environment where children enjoy learning and feel encouraged to attend.

Working together

Attendance is a shared responsibility between school and home.

We ask parents and carers to ensure that children:

• attend school every day
• arrive on time and ready to learn
• let us know as soon as possible if their child is absent

Parents are expected to contact the school on the first day of absence, providing a reason, and to keep the school updated if absence continues.

We work in partnership with families, offering support where needed and encouraging open communication at all times.

Arriving on time

A calm and positive start to the day is important for children’s learning and wellbeing.

Children should arrive at school on time so they do not miss important learning or opportunities to connect with others. Late arrival can be unsettling and may affect both progress and confidence.

Absence from school

If a child is unwell or unable to attend school, parents must inform us on the first day of absence. The school will always follow up any unexplained absence to ensure children are safe.

Some absences may be authorised, such as illness, unavoidable medical appointments or religious observance. Other absences, including holidays during term time, will not normally be authorised.

Permission for leave of absence during term time must be requested from the Headteacher in advance and is only granted in exceptional circumstances.

Supporting good attendance

We monitor attendance carefully and will contact families if attendance begins to fall. Where needed, we will work with parents to understand any barriers and put support in place.

If attendance continues to be a concern, we may work with external agencies to ensure that children receive the help they need.

Safeguarding and wellbeing

Regular attendance is closely linked to safeguarding and wellbeing. We recognise that poor attendance may sometimes be a sign that a child needs additional support.

Our priority is always to work with families in a supportive and understanding way so that every child feels safe, secure and able to attend school.