Why Attendance Matters at Our School

We believe that every child is a unique and precious individual, created in the image of God. Regular attendance is an essential part of helping each child grow, flourish, and fulfil their God‑given potential.

Strong attendance in primary school lays the foundations for:

• Secure learning – Children make the best progress when they are in school every day, building knowledge step by step.
• Friendship and belonging – Being present helps children form positive relationships and feel part of our caring Christian community.
• Good habits for life – Developing routines of punctuality and reliability supports children as they grow into responsible, confident young people.
• Emotional wellbeing – Consistent attendance provides stability, structure, and a sense of safety, all of which support children’s mental health.

When children miss school, they miss out on valuable learning experiences, shared moments with friends, and opportunities to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.

All at St John's Meads are committed to working in partnership with families to ensure every child can thrive. By attending regularly, children are better able to embrace the rich, broad curriculum and the nurturing environment that helps them become the best they can be.

Please find our DCAT guidance on why 'Attendance Matters' below.

Did you know?

Children who attend school nearly everyday in Year 6 (95-100% attendance) are 30% more likely to reach the expected standard in reading, writing and maths compared to similar pupils who attend 90-95% of the time.