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Attendance & punctuality
We know that being in school every day makes a real difference - not just to learning, but to friendships, confidence and overall wellbeing. If your child is going to be absent, please let us know by calling 01425 625400 or emailing enquiries@arnewood.hants.sch.uk before 8.30am.
Attendance is an important aspect of any child’s education. At Arnewood, we see attendance as a shared responsibility between school, students and families. When a child is struggling to come in, we want to understand why - and work alongside you to remove whatever barriers are getting in the way. We follow the Department for Education's guidance on improving school attendance, and our approach is always rooted in listening first.
When we spot a pattern of absence, we'll talk with you and your child to understand what's going on. We use the Arbor app to monitor attendance closely so we can act early, before difficulties become entrenched. Where support is needed, we'll help connect families with the right help - whether that's within school or through external agencies. Where voluntary support isn't working, we do have a responsibility to take further steps, and we'll always be clear with you about what those are and why.
We set a target of 95% attendance for all students - but the numbers tell a powerful story. 90% sounds reasonable, but it means missing 19 days a year - nearly four full school weeks. Even small, regular absences add up quickly and can have a real impact on progress and confidence
If your child has a medical appointment during the school day, please let us know in advance. We'd always encourage them to come in before or after the appointment wherever possible - every session counts.
Please contact the school office on 01425 625400.
The biggest thing families can do is make school the priority. That means keeping medical and dental appointments outside school hours where possible, avoiding term-time holidays, and helping your child get into a good routine - bag packed the night before school and ready to go. If your child does have an unavoidable appointment, please still bring them in before or after if you can - every session counts.