Someone once said that a significant part of being successful was simply showing up. This is not to be underestimated. As schools we often send letters home explaining the importance of attendance and this can sometimes feel like a broken record but it is so very true.

Every school day is important. At Wallingford each day consists of six lessons which form part of a bigger whole, a sequence of learning which supports progress over time. The importance of attending lessons cannot be overstated; they may move at different paces, differ in format from subject to subject and sometimes some seem more “fun” than others but they are all important.

Of course on occasions there can be valid reasons for absence from school. We are realistic about illness or injury – unfortunately both do happen and it can be that sometimes someone is particularly unlucky with either. However, barring an educational activity – which can include a performance or sports event – or a significant family matter it really is essential that every student attends school every day.

I think that January in schools is about routine. If December is about the excitement of Christmas and the tiredness at the end of a long term then January is about getting the routines in order again and getting set for the term.  It’s not always easy in the dark and the wet and the wind and being organised and having good routines can set us up well. Attendance, however obvious, is the most important part of this routine.