At St John the Baptist, regular attendance is an important part of every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging.
Being at school each day allows students to participate fully in learning, build strong relationships with their teachers and peers, and remain connected to their class and our wider school community. We recognise that there will be times when absence is unavoidable, and we value working in partnership with families to support regular attendance and address any concerns that may arise.
Why is regular attendance at school important?
Regular school attendance helps children establish strong learning routines and supports their academic, social and emotional development. Attending school every day makes it easier for students to build upon their learning and develop and maintain friendships with their peers.
Must I send my child every day?
YES. It is a condition of enrolment that you send your child to school every day. A small number of absences may be justified if your child:
- is too unwell to attend school or has an infectious illness
- is required to attend a serious or urgent family situation, such as a funeral
- is attending a special religious ceremony.
Must my child attend all activities, including fitness and sport? YES. Students are expected to participate in all regular school activities, including sport and physical activity.
Children should not be kept away from school for reasons such as:
- birthdays
- shopping
- minding other children
- routine appointments such as haircuts
- minor family events
- sleeping in.
Where possible, medical and other health appointments should be made outside school hours or during school holidays.
Arriving at School on Time
Being at school on time helps students begin their day calmly and positively. It allows them to connect with their classmates, participate in morning routines and be ready for the important learning that begins at the start of the school day.
Regular lateness can result in students missing important learning and can make the transition into the classroom more difficult.
What should I do if my child is absent?
If your child is unable to attend school, parents and carers must provide the school with a reason for the absence.
At St John the Baptist, absences can be explained through the Compass App.
All absences, including partial absences, must be explained.
Arriving Late or Leaving Early
Arriving after the commencement of the school day is recorded as a partial absence. Similarly, leaving school before the end of the school day is recorded as a partial absence.
When arriving late or collecting a child early, a parent or carer must sign the student in or out using the Kiosk in the Front Office foyer. Students cannot sign themselves in or out.
This process is important because it ensures our attendance records accurately reflect which students are on site and supports our duty of care for every child.
Supporting Regular Attendance
Principals are legally responsible for maintaining accurate student attendance records and determining whether reasons provided for absences are justified.
Where a student’s attendance becomes a concern, St John the Baptist will work with the student and their family to understand any barriers to attendance and identify appropriate strategies and supports.
Medical certificates or other documentation may be requested for prolonged or frequent absences attributed to illness. Where an explanation does not meet the requirements for a justified absence, the absence will be recorded as unjustified.
Our priority is to work in partnership with families to support students to attend school regularly and participate fully in their learning.
Family Holidays During School Time
Families are encouraged to plan holidays during scheduled school holiday periods wherever possible.
Where travel during the school term is unavoidable, families should contact the school in advance regarding the appropriate leave requirements and documentation.
For extended periods of leave, an Application for Extended Leave may be required and must be submitted to the Principal for consideration.
Further information about attendance and extended leave is available by contacting the St John the Baptist Front Office or the Catholic Schools Maitland Newcastle.