Why school attendance matters and what we’re doing to improve it
Every day at school counts. Even a small amount of missed learning can significantly impact a child’s education and future opportunities.
How attendance affects attainment
Reaching the expected standard in reading/writing/maths in Primary. To achieve grade 5 in English and Maths GCSE in Secondary.
What can you do?
Parent/carer
Only keep your child off school when they are genuinely too ill to attend. Book medical appointments and holidays outside of school time whenever possible. Talk to your child’s school if you’re having difficulties with attendance.
Schools
Building strong relationships with families, addressing the root causes of absence (like anxiety or special needs) and foster an inclusive, welcoming environment
What can we do?
Work with families to identify the root cause of the child and their attendance levels
Give a 12-session support structure to ensure the family is supported fully when making the change happen
Enable the families to see the possibility of a better future for their children
We also recognise that some children face real challenges that can affect attendance, including health conditions, mental health difficulties, or SEND. Schools should work closely and compassionately with families to understand the child’s needs and put the right support in place. Malachi can help and support families, through the school, with these attendance issues. Children are only at school for 190 days in the year so Malachi can support schools and families in making everyday count. We can all collaborate with families, and external agencies can make a significant difference in improving attendance and ensuring every pupil has access to education.
See how we work
with schools in Staffordshire County Council
Impact of Attendance Rates
(According to UK Government data):
95–100%
The ideal range for high achievement.
90–95%
Associated with lower attainment, specifically lower odds of achieving grade 5 in English and Maths.
Below 90%
Considered persistently absent, which has a serious effect on learning and can lead to over a year of missed school.
From November 2025, the updated Education Inspection Framework places a stronger emphasis on pupil attendance. Regular attendance is not only a statutory requirement but is fundamental to learning, safeguarding, and overall pupil well-being. Schools will be expected to demonstrate robust systems and proactive strategies to meet the expectations outlined within the new framework.
Schools should continue to review their attendance strategies to ensure they are robust, inclusive, and well communicated to all staff. Training for staff on consistent application and early intervention is essential.