Bellingham Middle School believes that a high level of school attendance is directly linked to a student's achievement, life chances and future employment. Parents, carers, pupils and staff all have a responsibility to ensure that students achieve excellent attendance. Excellent attendance promotes excellent learning. Regular school attendance is essential if children are to achieve their full potential.
We believe that regular school attendance is crucial in allowing children to maximise the educational opportunities available to them and become emotionally resilient, confident and competent adults who are able to realise their full potential and make a positive contribution to their community.
We value all pupils. As set out in our Attendance Policy, we will work with families to early identify the reasons for poor attendance and try to resolve any difficulties which may be affecting this. We believe attendance is a shared responsibility, involving the whole school community and local community.
Our Attendance Policy should not be viewed in isolation; it is a thread that runs through all aspects of school improvement, and is supported by our policies on safeguarding, anti-bullying, and behaviour This policy also takes into account the Human Rights Act , the Equality Act and DfE School Attendance Advice as well as Keeping Children Safe in Education We believe the following important principles underpin our approach to managing attendance:.
What time should my child arrive at school? Please make sure your child gets to school on time. Support staff are available from 8. What do I do if my child will be absent? Make sure that you inform the school office as soon as possible, and before 9. Attendance levels are high at BMS. What if my child is going to be late? Call the school office as soon as possible if your child will be late into school. This really helps with registration and lunch administration.
