Attendance

Going to school regularly is important for your child’s future.

Excellent attendance at school shows future schools, clubs, and employers that your child is reliable and dedicated. It also gives them the best chance to grow emotionally, socially, and academically.

Inclusive and Research-Based Approach

At Cranleigh C of E Primary, we work in partnership with families to create a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child feels they both belong and matter (Zawada, 2024). Pupils who feel they matter are more likely to exhibit resilience, motivation, and a commitment to their education.  And we are here to support you and your child every step of the way.

There is a clear link between how often a child attends school and how well they do academically.  According to the Department for Education (DfE, 2025), pupils with 95–100% attendance in Year 6 were:

- 1.3 times more likely to meet the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths than those attending 90–95%
- 1.8 times more likely than those attending 85–90%

This research also demonstrated that:
- Missing 10 school days can reduce the likelihood of meeting expected standards by 25%
- Improving attendance by two weeks can increase success by up to 30%

Educational expert Daniel Sobel also reminds us that attendance reflects more than routine; it is a sign of a child’s wellbeing and sense of safety. When children feel included, supported, and valued, they are far more likely to attend regularly.

What We Ask of Parents/Carers

Report Absences by 9am Each Day:

If your child is absent due to illness, please phone the school between 8:30–9:00am on 01483 273286 on the first and each subsequent day of absence.

Within 5 working days of your child's return, please provide:
- A signed/stamped letter, appointment card, text, or email dated to the time of any GP/nurse appointment
- A receipt showing any medication bought and/or a dated prescription medication label

Schedule Appointments Outside School Hours:

Arrange medical and dental appointments after school hours, at weekends, or during school holidays to minimise disruption to your child's education.

Avoid Term-Time Holidays:

Do not expect the school to agree to your child going on holiday during term time. To request leave of absence during term time, please complete our online Leave of Absence Request Application Form.

Engage with the School:

Discuss any problems your child may have at school with their teacher or Headteacher Kate Pelazza, and inform us of any serious issues that may affect your child's attendance.

Promote the Importance of Good Attendance:

Help your child understand the importance of good attendance and punctuality. Take an interest in their education by asking about school work and encouraging involvement in school activities. Avoid letting them take time off school for minor ailments, particularly those which would not prevent someone from going to work.

By working together, we can ensure that your child receives the full benefits of their education and is well-prepared for future success.

For more detailed information, please refer to the school's Attendance Policy below.

DfE: Working Together To Improve Attendance 2024

The DfE's: Working Together To Improve Attendance paper became statutory on 19th August 2024. The Guide for Parents can be found below.

DfE: The link between Attendance and Attainment in an Assessment Year (2025)

This report, which examines the relationship between attendance and academic achievement for pupils in state-funded mainstream schools during the 2022 to 2023 academic year at the end of Key stage 2, can be found below.