Attendance
Why attendance matters
Education for your child is important and regular attendance at school is essential for your child to achieve their educational best and increase their career and life options.
When your child misses school, they can fall behind in their learning, which may affect their progress over time.
Regular attendance helps children stay connected, engaged, and on track with their education. Missing school can mean missing out on:
- Key lessons and class activities
- Important assignments and assessments
- Time with friends and teachers
- Opportunities to take part in sports, events, and excursions
In New South Wales, school is compulsory for all children aged 6-17years. For more information, view the Department's school attendance policy.
Being on time to school and class ensures each student maximises their learning and potential, helps them develop good routines, connect with friends, and minimises classroom disruptions.
Students that present to school or class late are recorded as a partial absence.
Students who present late to school are required to:
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Proceed directly to their timetabled class to have their attendance adjusted
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Parents/carers are required to provide a valid explanation for their child's lateness via phone, email or a written note.
An explanation for any student absences is required within 7 days from the first day of the absence, even if only for one day.
If your child is absent from school, please contact us to let us know the reason, even if it’s just for a short period at the start or end of the day. We understand there are times when a child cannot attend school, such as when they are unwell. Where possible, medical appointments should be scheduled outside school hours, and family holidays should be taken during term breaks.
Justified reasons for student absences may include:
• Being sick, or having an infectious disease
• having an unavoidable medical appointment
• being required to attend a recognised religious holiday
• exceptional or urgent family circumstance e.g. attending a funeral.
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We understand that getting your child to school can sometimes be challenging, especially if they are feeling anxious or reluctant to attend. We are here to support you and your child to ensure they are ready and engaged at school. Please contact us for assistance.
All New South Wales students must complete Year 10 or its equivalent. After Year 10, and up until they reach 17 years of age, there are a range of flexible options for students to complete their schooling.
Do you have concerns about your child's attendance?
If you are concerned about your child’s attendance or would like to discuss circumstances affecting your child's attendance, we can connect you with the right teacher or staff member.
Parent portal
Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress.
Policies and reports
Learn how the NSW Department of Education helps shape our policies and reports.