Attendance at Foyle College
We recognise the strong link between good attendance, progress and ultimate academic success and we encourage all our pupils to aim for full attendance if at all possible. As highlighted in the Department of Education infographic below, there are many reasons why good attendance is important and many ways in which you can provide support. We ask parents and carers to comply with the following:
If your child is absent, please ensure an email is sent by the school or phone the school that morning on
02871269321
If your child has a medical appointment, please send a note signed and dated by yourselves. Pupils should present the note to their Form Tutor during Registration and then to Reception when they are being collected.
Pupils should not go home themselves, but rather to tell a member of staff. You will be contacted by the school so that safe arrangements can be made for their collection, as appropriate.
You will be kept aware of cumulative percentage attendance via the SIMS ParentApp. Where full (100%) attendance has been achieved, this will be recognised and acknowledged via our House Rewards system.
In cases where a pupil's percentage attendance has fallen to a level that gives cause for concern, or where no reasons for absence have been provided, our Attendance Officer will link with you and discuss how this can be resolved. Should further support be required, a referral to the Education Welfare Service will be made.
If at any time you have concerns around a pupil's ability or willingness to attend, please contact their Form Tutor without delay.
Attendance Matters
Key Benefits of Attendance
Higher Grades
Students with good attendance typically achieve better grades since they benefit from consistent learning opportunities.
Social Growth
Regular attendance helps students build friendships and improve their collaboration skills through daily interactions.
Future Readiness
Regular participation prepares students for the demands of higher education and the workplace by instilling discipline.
Positive Environment
A consistent presence in school contributes to a better learning environment, benefiting everyone in the community.
Miss School = Miss Out
Why Attendance is so Important
If a child of compulsory school age is registered at a school it is essential that they attend their school regularly and maintain a pattern of good attendance throughout their school career.
"Excellent attendance at school is important to allow a child or young person to fulfil their potential."
Key Reasons to Attend:
- To learn
- To make new friends
- To gain qualifications
- To develop new skills
- To build confidence
- To experience new things
Key Point
Young people who regularly miss school without good reason are more likely to become isolated from their friends, to underachieve in examinations and/or become involved in anti-social behaviour.
Difference to Exam Results
How Parents Can Help
- Establish a good routine in the mornings and evenings so your child is prepared.
- Ensure your child arrives at school on time - not late.
- Arrange dental and medical appointments outside school hours when possible.
- Always inform the school if your child is absent due to illness.
- Do not take family holidays during term time.
- Talk to your child about school and take an interest in their work.
- Attend parents evenings and school events.
- Praise and reward your child's achievements.
Legal Requirement
Parents of children aged 4-16 who are enrolled in school are legally required to make sure they attend.
Every School Day Counts
Every day absent equates to a day of lost learning