Why being on time for school is important
- Schools start the day with core learning e.g. phonics and literacy.
- Being on time (being punctual) means children won’t miss out and fall behind with their learning.
- Being on time provides opportunity for children to meet friends and to develop new relationships.
- Being punctual creates good habits for current & future learning (e.g. college and university) and employment.
Tips to avoid being late (hyperlinks provide information on sleep, screen time and nutrition)
- Be sure to know your school’s start times and keep updated with their news for any possible changes.
- Prepare the night before.
- Ensure school clothes are ready for the next day.
- Pack schoolbags the night before, ensuring homework has been done.
- Prepare pack lunches the night before.
- Get a good night’s sleep for getting up on time.
- Sleeping for recommended levels helps growth and development; it also helps children to be fresh and alert for learning.
- Avoid the temptation to look at screens close to sleep times (television and SMART devices, phones and iPads).
- Physical exercise and fresh air can help sleep, do something physical, swimming, a walk or jog, cycling, wheelchair.
- Develop a bedtime routine, a time for sleep with a realistic time to wake up, avoid clashes with others and their routines.
- Set an alarm clock and keep it away from easy reach (to avoid being easily switched off).
- Include making time for breakfast to fuel the day and learning ahead.
- Consider using a school’s Breakfast Club if dropping other children elsewhere, or, if you have an early start at work or college.Include extra time to avoid last minute rushes.
Legal implications of being late to school
If your child is late after registration has closed they are likely to get an unauthorised mark for this session (code U). This is an unauthorised absent mark as the child was not present at the time of registers being taken.
NB: legal action can be taken against parents and carers regarding unauthorised absence in the form of a Penalty Notice fine or by Prosecution.