Is Your Child Struggling With Attendance?

Many young people in Years 7 to 13 experience difficulties attending school or Sixth Form at some point. The reasons can vary from student to student, and attendance concerns can affect children and young people of all ages. As a Parent or Carer, you are not alone. We are here to work with you and your child to understand any barriers and provide support.

Students may find attending school or sixth form challenging due to:

• Worries about schoolwork, coursework, examinations or academic pressure
• Friendship issues, relationship difficulties or social concerns
• Anxiety, low mood or feeling overwhelmed
• Sleep difficulties, poor routines or tiredness
• Physical health needs or emotional wellbeing concerns
• Changes at home, such as bereavement, separation or other family circumstances
• Neurodiversity-related challenges, including sensory sensitivities, transitions or changes to routine
• Concerns about moving between key stages, starting GCSEs, or studying A Levels and preparing for future pathways

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Strategies to Support Attendance

1. Talk and Listen

Open and supportive conversations can help identify any worries before they become bigger concerns.

• Ask open questions such as "What part of the day feels most difficult?" or "What would help make tomorrow easier?"
• Listen without judgement and acknowledge your child's feelings.
• Reassure your child that you will work together to overcome challenges and that support is available.

2. Establish Consistent Routines

Predictable routines help young people feel prepared and reduce anxiety about the school day.

• Maintain regular bedtimes and wake-up times, including during weekends where possible.
• Prepare equipment, bags, uniforms or resources the night before.
• Encourage healthy habits, including limiting screen time before bed.
• For older students, help them organise homework, revision schedules and deadlines.

3. Break Challenges into Manageable Steps

When attendance has become difficult, small steps can often be more effective than focusing on the bigger picture.

• Use visual planners, timetables or calendars where helpful.
• Agree realistic, achievable short-term goals.
• Focus on one day at a time.
• Recognise and celebrate progress, no matter how small.

4. Encourage Independence and Problem Solving

As students move through secondary school and into Sixth Form, developing independence becomes increasingly important.

• Encourage your child to identify solutions to challenges they face.
• Support them in developing organisational and time-management skills.
• Help them build confidence in communicating with teachers, form tutors and support staff when they need help.

5. Work With School Early

The earlier concerns are shared, the more support can be provided.

• Contact your child's Form Tutor, Head of Year, Pastoral Team, Attendance Team or Sixth Form Team if you have concerns.
• Share any information that may be affecting attendance.
• Work collaboratively with school staff to develop appropriate support strategies.
• Remember that we are here to support both you and your child.

Remember

Attendance difficulties can affect students at any stage, from Year 7 through to Year 13. Addressing concerns early and working together can make a significant difference. With the right support, most attendance issues can be successfully overcome, helping young people to engage fully in school life, achieve their potential and enjoy positive future opportunities.