School attendance
Every School Day Matters
Did you know that a pupil with an average of 90% attendance from P1 onwards could miss the equivalent of an entire school year by the time they reach S3?
We want to make sure that no child misses out on the opportunities we can offer them.
That is why we have launched a campaign to reinforce the message that ‘Every School Day Matters’.
What might seem to be just a few days of absence a year can quickly add up, and that cumulative effect makes a difference.
Coming to school is about so much more than books and numbers.
It helps to nurture, support and create social skills, friendships, support networks, and the ability to learn, change and adapt.
We believe that every pupil can find their superpower in the classroom, in the art studio, music hall, playground, science lab and playing field.
Our campaign wants to highlight this, and to provide tangible, practical and up-to-date support, advice and guidance for all parents and carers.
Being in school is the foundation upon which happy, successful and resilient young people are built.
Every School Day Matters.
Promoting school contact
Maintaining good communication with your child’s school is an important part of supporting their attendance. If your child is going to be absent for any reason, please contact the school directly as soon as possible. Speaking with the school gives you the chance to explain the reason for the absence, ask any questions, and receive guidance if needed. It also allows the school to record the absence accurately using the correct SEEMiS code, ensuring your child’s attendance record is kept up to date and reflects the right information.
Health and Wellbeing
Looking after health and wellbeing plays a big part in helping young people feel ready and able to attend school. Many teenagers benefit from having quick, reliable tools they can use to manage stress, build confidence, and stay motivated. The websites and apps in this section offer practical support, trusted information, and positive strategies that can make everyday challenges feel more manageable. Encouraging your teen to explore these resources might give them an extra boost and help them feel more prepared for the school day. For more information, please visit the page below:
Emotionally based school non-attendance (EBSNA)
Supporting a child who is anxious about school can feel overwhelming, and many parents tell us they often feel alone in trying to navigate it. Our EBSNA resources are designed to offer clear, practical guidance and reassurance, helping you understand what’s going on and how to support your child step by step. By exploring these materials, you’ll find helpful strategies, information, and reminders that you’re not on your own—there is support available, and small changes can make a real difference. Please visit the page below for a "parent survival guide":
Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
Staying on at school after the age of 16 can open up valuable opportunities for young people, helping them build confidence, gain qualifications and prepare for their next steps. Many families don’t realise that their child may also be eligible for the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), which provides financial support to help them continue their education. If your child is thinking about remaining in school, it’s worth checking whether they qualify - EMA can make a real difference and ensure they have the support they need to stay engaged and succeed. Please visit the pages below for more information:
More sources of advice
- School attendance
- Holidays during term time
- Useful links