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Forestdale Primary School

Attendance

At Forestdale Primary School, excellent attendance is everyone’s responsibility. We know that every day in school matters. Regular, punctual attendance builds the foundation for strong academic progress, confident learners, and positive wellbeing. Each lesson connects to the next, and children who attend consistently are more likely to thrive, socially, emotionally, and academically.

We work closely with families, Croydon Local Authority, and education partners to promote outstanding attendance across our community. Our aim is simple: remove barriers, provide support, and ensure every child has the best possible chance to succeed.

Why Attendance Matters

  • Academic progress — Children who attend regularly achieve stronger outcomes.

  • Routine and stability — Being in school helps children feel secure and settled.

  • Friendships and wellbeing — Daily interaction builds confidence, resilience, and social skills.

  • Learning that can’t be repeated — Missing school means missing explanations, discussions, and practical experiences that are difficult to recreate.

Family/School Partnership

We understand that families may face challenges — from illness and housing difficulties to routines, anxiety, or emotional wellbeing. At Forestdale, we take a relational, supportive approach to improving attendance.

  • We listen without judgement.

  • We work with families to understand the root cause of absence.

  • We put practical strategies in place to help children attend regularly.

  • We work in partnership with Croydon Local Authority where needed.

  • We work closely with Team EWO to monitor attendance, support families, and ensure that every pupil is in school regularly and on time.

If you have concerns about your child’s attendance, please speak to us early. We are here to help.

Celebrating Attendance

We believe that recognising great attendance builds motivation, pride, and a positive culture around coming to school. We celebrate attendance in a variety of ways:

Weekly Awards

Weekly Attendance Ted

  • Awarded to the class with the highest attendance each week.

Weekly Attendance Cup

  • Awarded to the class with the best combined attendance and punctuality for the week.

Weekly 100% Attendance Draw

  • Children with 100% attendance for the week are entered into a prize draw.
  • Five names are selected and placed on a spinner.
  • The five winners choose a prize such as pens, bookmarks, or cards.

Termly Awards

Termly 100% Attendance Certificate

  • At the end of each term, pupils with 100% attendance receive a certificate.

Termly 100% Attendance Prize Draw

  • In the final three weeks of each term, families who maintain full attendance are entered into a family prize draw. Previous prizes, generously donated by local businesses, have included:
    • A free takeaway from Capone’s Pizza
    • Afternoon tea at Farleigh Golf Club
    • A family meal at Royal Tandoori

Annual Award

Annual 100% Attendance Certificate & Prize

  • Children with 100% attendance for the whole year receive:
    • An annual certificate
    • A £5 book voucher
    • Recognition during the End‑of‑Year Celebration Assembly

Punctuality

 

 

 

We run a Beat the Bell Challenge each morning. Children aim to arrive before the bell to show excellent punctuality. The class with the best punctuality for the week wins extra playtime as a reward.

 

  

Let’s Keep Attendance High

At Forestdale Primary School, pupils, families, and staff work together to ensure every child receives the very best education. We are proud of our shared commitment to excellent attendance and we celebrate that commitment every step of the way.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s attendance, please speak to us. We are here to support you.

Term‑Time Holidays

Holidays during term time are not a parental right and will not be authorised unless there are exceptional circumstances. A holiday request form must be completed in advance.

If you choose to take your child out of school for an unauthorised holiday, you may receive a penalty notice of £80 per parent, per child.

Please refer to our Attendance Policy (below) for more information on:

  • Exceptional circumstances guidance

  • Penalty notices

Can I Get Support?

Absolutely. We recognise that families may experience unavoidable challenges. The most effective way to keep your child on track is to work together early.

Our caring, dedicated staff are committed to ensuring your child is happy, supported, and able to get the most out of their time at Forestdale.

If you need help, please talk to us.

  • Request attendance support

  • Discuss barriers to attendance

 Attendance Policy

For more information on attendance and punctuality, please click on the button below: 

Attendance Policy 

 Termly Attendance Newsletter

We will be publishing a termly newsletter filled with helpful tips, advice, and information for families. Each edition will share practical ideas to support routines, attendance, wellbeing, learning at home, and ways to help children feel ready for school each day.

Our aim is to make things easier for families by offering simple, supportive guidance you can use straight away.

Summer Term Newsletter