Attendance at The Links Primary School
Everyday Matters – Attend Today; Achieve Tomorrow
A partnership between school and home
At The Links Primary School, we place a very high importance on excellent attendance for all pupils. Regular school attendance is one of the strongest factors linked to children’s academic success, personal development, and long-term life chances.
Educational research consistently shows that even small amounts of missed learning can have a significant cumulative impact. Children who miss just a few days of school each term can fall behind their peers, particularly in key areas such as reading, writing, and mathematics. Over time, this gap can widen, making learning more difficult and affecting confidence, motivation, and self-esteem. By the end of primary school, pupils with lower attendance are more likely to leave education with reduced opportunities compared to their full potential.
Attendance is not only about academic achievement. Being in school every day helps children to develop important social skills, build positive friendships, and establish routines that support emotional wellbeing. Regular attendance also helps pupils feel a strong sense of belonging to the school community, which research shows is closely linked to positive behaviour and engagement with learning.
As a school, we are committed to giving every child the best possible start in life. Encouraging excellent attendance is a key part of this commitment, and we work closely with families to support children in attending school regularly and on time.
Attendance is monitored daily. Where attendance gives cause for concern, parents and carers will be contacted and may receive a letter to highlight the issue. If attendance does not improve, parents may be invited to attend a meeting with school staff to discuss how we can work together to support improved attendance.
If your child is unwell, please telephone the school office before 9.00am on the first day of absence, clearly stating the reason. If your child remains absent, you must continue to inform the school on each subsequent day.
In line with Government guidance, holidays taken during term time will not be authorised unless there are exceptional circumstances. Parents wishing to request leave of absence must complete the relevant form. Please be aware that unauthorised term-time holidays may result in a penalty notice (fine) being issued.
Medical and dental appointments should be made outside of school where possible. When this is not possible, school must be informed in advance of any medical or dental appointments, and evidence may be requested. Please notify the school office by telephone or email prior to the appointment wherever possible.
Parents and carers can monitor their child’s attendance via the Arbor App. Attendance information is also included on termly report cards, enabling families to work in partnership with the school to support good attendance.
By working together, we can ensure that every child benefits fully from their education and has the best possible chance to succeed both now and in the future.
Attendance Expectations & Targets
| Attendance |
Meaning |
| 97–100% |
Excellent |
| 96% |
Good |
| 90–95% |
Cause for concern |
| Below 90% |
Persistent absence |
