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Attendance: Be Ready

At Shawclough, we want every child to enjoy school, feel confident and achieve their very best. Regular attendance helps children learn, build friendships and make the most of every opportunity school offers. Attendance and punctuality are directly linked to:

1) Improved attainment and progress

We know that children who are in school more, learn more. Missing the start of school or even a few days off can be hard to catch up.

2) Improved social and emotional skills

We know that children who are in school more, develop more confidence, resilience and relationships. Missing school can mean less sense of belonging.

3) Improved prospects

We know that children who are in school more, have more opportunities in the future. Missing school can affect chances later in life.

Support for parents, carers and pupils

At Shawclough, all the staff support pupils attend. We try to make school as enjoyable, interesting and as safe as possible. If you would like any support or have any questions about punctuality or attendance please do not hesitate to contact us and ask to speak to one of our attendance team: 

  • Mr Doyle: Strategic Lead
  • Mrs Matthews: Attendance Officer
  • Ms Sharp: Children’s Welfare Officer
  • Tel: 01706 647991
  • Email: office@shawclough.rochdale.sch.uk

Parent Checklist. Be Ready: 

✓ Ensure my child attends school every day where possible 
✓ Arrive on time each morning 
✓ Contact school before 8:45am if my child is absent 
✓ Arrange medical appointments outside school hours whenever possible 
✓ Book family holidays during school holidays 
✓ Speak to school early if attendance is becoming a concern 

Attendance FAQ 

Q: What should I do if my child is ill? 
A: Contact the school office before 8:45am.  
 
Q: What is good attendance? 
A: We encourage all children to achieve at least 96% attendance. This means that they would miss no more than roughly 6 days a year (1 per half term)  
 
Q: Can I take my child on holiday during term time? 
A: Leave during term time can only be authorised in exceptional circumstances. Unfortunately, weddings, family events or parents working away does not count. Exceptional circumstances normally means the unfortunate death of an immediate family member.  
 
Q: My child is worried about coming to school. What should I do? 
A: Please contact us to discuss. We have lots of people who can help: the class teachers, Ms Sharp, Mrs Matthews and many others. Mrs Mooney will also be able to work with your child to help them – this may include spending time with them in the afternoons helping develop their confidence, resilience and happiness. In some cases we can also ask the local authority for support.  
 
Q: Who can help with attendance concerns? 
A: If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us and ask to Mrs Matthews. She will be able to help or put you in touch with someone who can. 

Working Together 

Thank you for working with us to ensure you child gets the most out of school by being ready. Every day in school counts.