Being on time is important as schools often start the day with core learning (English, Maths and Literacy). It also provides opportunity to meet friends, other families and to develop new relationships. Being late could mean your child falls behind due to lost learning.
This table shows the equivalent of days missed from school by being late over an academic year
| 5 minutes | 3.4 school days a year |
| 10 minutes | 6.9 school days a year |
| 15 minutes | 10.3 school days a year |
| 20 minutes | 13.8 school days a year |
| 30 minutes | 20.7 school days a year |
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). If this persists legal action could be taken by Penalty Notice fine or Prosecution (see Section 444(1) of the Education Act 1996).
Establishing good habits and routine
It’s important to establish good habits and routine for school, which will also serve your child well for later life e.g. further learning and employment.
Tips to avoid being late for school (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 level helps growth and development, while also ensuring children are fresh and alert for learning.
- Avoid the temptation to look at screens close to sleep times (television and SMART devices, phones and iPads).
- Don’t drink caffeinated drinks too close to bed.
- 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, keep it away from bedside 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.
For further information on breakfast and healthy food choices see here: https://attendanceplus.co.uk/useful-links/