Author Default
WRITTEN BY
Chris Charlton
Principal
25 April, 2025

Why Every Day Matters: The Importance of School Attendance

Why Every Day Matters - Why Every Day Matters
Why Every Day Matters: The Importance of School Attendance

At school, every day counts. Each lesson, each discussion, each interaction helps shape a child’s learning journey, and when students miss school, they miss more than just a lesson. They miss the connections, the confidence-building, and the small but vital steps that lead to long-term success.

It’s often said that “80% of success is just showing up,” and in education, that couldn’t be more true.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

Did you know that:

  • A student who misses just one day of school per fortnight will have lost an entire year of learning by the time they finish Year 11.
  • Research from the UK Department for Education shows that students with no absence are almost twice as likely to achieve strong GCSE results (grades 5-9 in English and Maths) compared to those with attendance below 90%.
  • Falling below 95% attendance – that’s just 9–10 days off per year – is linked to lower academic achievement across all subjects.

But It’s About More Than Grades

Of course, school isn’t only about exam results. Regular attendance supports:

  • Social development – Children build friendships, learn teamwork, and develop empathy by being around their peers.
  • Emotional wellbeing – Routine provides structure and security, which helps children feel settled and confident.
  • Lifelong habits – Punctuality, responsibility and commitment are all skills nurtured through regular school attendance.

A Small Absence, A Big Impact

Take this example: a student who arrives 10 minutes late every day will miss over 30 hours of learning across the school year, that’s nearly a whole week of lessons.

When students miss school, even for what feels like small reasons, the gaps add up quickly. Teachers work hard to help students catch up, but there’s no true substitute for being in the room where it happens.

How We Can Work Together

We understand that children get ill, and sometimes there are exceptional circumstances. But where possible, attending every day, on time, really does make a difference.

Here’s how you can support your child’s attendance:

  • Book holidays during school breaks. Missing even a few days of term time can cause gaps in learning.
  • Build strong routines – consistent bedtimes, healthy mornings, and a good breakfast set students up for success.
  • Communicate with us – if your child is struggling, anxious, or facing challenges, we’re here to help.

A Shared Commitment

We all want the very best for our children – academically, socially, and emotionally. Strong attendance is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to help them thrive at school and beyond.

Thank you for supporting us in making every day matter.