Coteford Infant School

Everyday is important. A missed day at school is a missed opportunity for a child. Regular attendance at school is a vital part in giving a child a good start in life; it is not just beneficial, it is essential. Good attendance at school is a predictor of later success in life. School attendance is critical, not only for progress and attainment, but also for a child’s social and emotional well-being and development. Attendance of 96% is considered to be satisfactory, although 100% is ideal. A child should only be absent from school due to illness or essential medical appointments that cannot be made outside of school hours. We publish attendance figures in our weekly newletters and hold regular assemblies about attendance to enable the children to develop an understanding of how important it is to come to school. 

You can help prevent your child missing school:

• Having a well-established routine from an early age and stick it to it. Do have regular and early bed times so that your child is not too tired in the morning.
• Having uniform ready and prepared the night before.
• Making sure your child understands the importance of good attendance and punctuality. Be positive about school, even if your own experience was less than positive.  
• Making sure they understand the possible implications for themselves and you as a parent if they don't attend.
• Taking an interest in their education - ask about school work and encourage them to get involved in school activities.
• Discussing any problems they may have at school and letting their teacher know about anything that is causing concern.
• Not letting them take time off school for minor ailments or holidays during term time. If we think your child is so unwell that they should not be in school we will contact you.

To avoid disrupting your child's education, you should arrange, as far as possible, appointments and outings:

• after school hours
• at weekends
• during school holidays

Persistent absenteeism

Any child who has attendance below 90% is classed as “persistently absent”. We do work closely with Hillingdon’s Participation Team and have a duty to refer children who are persistently absent to our local officer. This can result in Fixed Penalty Notices, court proceedings, fines and Education Supervision Orders.

If your child does have to be absent contact us as soon as possible on the first day of absence, before 9.30.

Please click here to read our Attendance Policy.