Attendance
Every Day Counts
School Attendance Matters at Feilding High School
Regular attendance is the foundation for success. Every day at school gives students the chance to learn, connect with friends, and build the skills they need for the future. Missing even a few days can create gaps in learning and make it harder to keep up.
Under the Education and Training Act 2020, students aged 6–16 must attend school regularly, and parents and caregivers are legally responsible for ensuring this happens.
Our goal is for students to attend at least 90% of the term, which means less than 5 days absence per term.
Attendance Categories
- Good Attendance (Regular Attendance): 90% or more (less than 5 days absent per term)
- Worrying Attendance (Irregular Attendance): 80–90% (5–9 days absent per term)
- Concerning Attendance (Moderate Attendance): 70–80% (10–14 days absent per term)
- Very Concerning Attendance (Chronic Absence): Below 70% (15+ days absent per term)
Irregular to Chronic Absence
If a student’s attendance falls below 90%, we work closely with whānau through meetings, phone calls, and emails to understand any challenges and put a support plan in place, while celebrating improvements along the way. We hope that with reminders and support, you will work with us to improve your child’s attendance.
If attendance does not improve, we may refer the case to the Attendance Service, who will visit your home and work alongside you to support regular attendance. Our goal is to ensure every learner is at school, engaged, and thriving in their learning journey.
Impact of Absence
- Missing school disrupts learning and makes it harder to keep up with assessments.
- Students who are absent regularly can feel disconnected from friends and school life.
- Teachers will not provide extra work for holidays taken during term time.
What We Expect
- Students attend school every day it is open for instruction unless there is a valid reason.
- Parents notify the school before 9:00 am if their child is absent or late.
- Holidays and appointments should be arranged during term breaks or outside school hours.
- Families work with us to address any barriers to attendance.
Reporting an Absence:
- Phone: 06 323 4029 ext 749
- Email: [email protected]
- Parent Portal: http://feildinghigh.school.kiwi
Please provide the reason for the absence. For extended illness (longer than 3 days), we may ask for a medical certificate.
Two Broad Categories of Absence
Justified Absence
A justified absence is when a student cannot attend school for a valid reason that is acceptable under school policy or Ministry of Education guidelines.
- Illness that means a child is too unwell to attend school
- Following doctor’s advice to remain home after illness (e.g., infectious conditions)
- Emergency medical or dental appointments
- The recent death of a close family member
- Approved cultural or religious observance
Unjustified Absence
An unjustified absence is when a student misses school for reasons that are not considered valid or approved.
- Looking after a younger sibling
- Time off for birthday celebrations
- Family holidays during term time (unless exceptional circumstances apply)
- Oversleeping or missing the bus
- Shopping trips or days out
- Non-medical appointments or reason not stated
- Visiting relatives
Health Guidance
If your child is unwell, follow Ministry of Health guidelines or consult your doctor. If unsure, contact the school for advice.
How We Support Families
We understand that some students face challenges such as transport, or family circumstances. If you’re struggling with attendance, please talk to us early. We’re here to help.
Quick Tips for Parents
- Plan appointments outside school hours whenever possible.
- Plan family holidays outside of school term dates. Holidays taken during term time are not approved and will affect your child’s learning and attendance record.
- Set up a consistent morning routine to help your child arrive on time.
- Contact us early if you’re facing challenges. We’re here to support you.