Attendance and punctuality

Our school is open every weekday during term time from 7.30am. All children are very welcome to attend breakfast club (a charge applies for breakfast club), this can be arranged by booking a place with our office staff.

Our classroom doors open at 8.40am and children start learning from 8.40am.

Why do we need to come to school?

• To learn new things

• It’s the law.

• Being part of a group helps us to get on well with others and make friends.

• Educational visits help us to learn about the big wide world outside of school.

• Taking part in clubs and teams is fun and helps us to play together and get better at what we do.

• Being at school every day improves your chances of getting a job or going to college and university when you get older.

• To learn about learn more about each other and our local community and wider communities. What happens if your child doesn’t come to school?

• Children don’t learn as well and will get behind with their learning.

• They might get bored at home and develop bad habits and become lazy.

• They don’t get to make as many friends.

• They miss out on special days, celebrations, educational visits, school clubs and team events.

What is good attendance?

At St James C of E Primary School we think 97.5%+ attendance is what each child should aim for. Children should always try to come to school unless they are REALLY ILL. If your attendance is below 95% letters will be sent to you and your child’s attendance will be monitored closely. If there is no improvement a meeting will be held and an attendance agreement will be put in place. If your attendance does not improve a referral will be made to the Education Welfare Service What to do if your child doesn’t come to school Telephone school on the first day of absence Rewards Attendance reward for 100% attendance for the whole year.

Punctuality awards.