We changed our strategy by:
- We rewrote our policy to include higher expectations and rewards;
- We have constantly reinforced the importance of high attendance with the children;
- Every week that a child has 100% attendance, they are awarded a raffle ticket which is then put into a draw each half term. Four tickets are drawn for each class;
- The children have a choice of prizes, from a variety of stationery, stickers etc. It has been very popular;
- The school awards a weekly certificate to the class which has the highest attendance. There is also a trophy which is held by the class with the highest attendance that half term;
- The trophy winners also receive a reward, again of their choosing, but usually things like a video, PJ party, etc. which is easy and inexpensive to implement, and highly popular;
- Gift vouchers are awarded to those with 100% attendance all year;
- There is a strict system of tracking, including phone calls, meetings etc. with parents;
- Attendance has been a feature of the newsletter on a regular basis, to ensure that the issue is raised with parents. As part of parental meetings, attendance records are shared;
- Attendance has been part of the school development plan and the revised policy was shared with parents. We also have brought to parents’ attention any trends we have noticed, which have then been addressed.