Attendance matters

Dear parents and guardians,

The summer holidays are almost here and many of us are ready to take a temporary break from the routine of school life. If you get an opportunity to relax, I hope you enjoy it.

Whilst referencing the routine of the academic year, it is appropriate that I draw your attention to an important campaign which we will be implementing in September: "Attendance matters - every pupil, on time, every day".

Carmarthenshire’s Secondary school attendance was 93.5% and Primary pupils’ attendance was 94% during the last full year before covid. (2018-19)

Secondary school attendance averaged 83% and Primary pupils’ attendance averaged 89.5% in 2021-22.

GCSE aged Year 11’s average attendance in 2021-22 was 73%.

Consider this in light of the fact that a pupil with 80% attendance is already missing one day every week.

Socially, every lost day is a lost opportunity to be with friends, create relationships with teachers, have new experiences, develop as individuals, and reach one’s potential.

If you feel that there are situations in your life or your child's life that prevent them from attending school/attending on time, you can get advice and support from your school or the County Council.

This link could be a good starting point if you’re looking for simple, practical ideas that could help you and your child improve their attendance and punctuality.

Our desire is that we work together to ensure Carmarthenshire’s pupils have the best opportunity to be at school as much as possible. We want our pupils to start building good habits and practices that will stand them in good stead for their future beyond school.

Early 2022-23 attendance data indicates that improvements are being made but that there is still a way to go.

Thank you for all your support and best wishes for the summer holiday.