Education Welfare Services (EWS)

What parents can do

What Parents do to ensure children attend fully?

Children will develop an understanding of the importance of education if they live in a family where there is a culture of learning. Parental attitude has a key influence on a child's school attendance and there is much they can do to encourage, even reluctant pupils, to attend.

Parents should:

ensure that pupils arrive punctually and for younger children ensure they are properly equipped;
avoid taking family holidays during school term time – not only will the pupil miss out on their academic studies but they will also learn that education is not the main priority within the family and that will have a life long effect;
make time to encourage and show interest;
attend school open evening and functions;
share any education concerns with the appropriate member of school staff;
read all school communications, the effective use of a home/school diary can enhance communication only when all parties ensure compliance;
check homework has been completed;
set realistic boundaries and sanctions (do not impose boundaries that neither pupils or parents will be able to keep)