Attendance at Lotus Academy

Good attendance is essential for children to achieve their academic, social and emotional potential.

At Lotus Academy we understand that many children have experienced challenges that can affect their engagement with education. We take a supportive, relationship-based and trauma-informed approach whilst maintaining high expectations regarding attendance.

Why Attendance Matters

Regular attendance helps pupils to:

• Build positive relationships with trusted adults.
• Maintain routines and structure.
• Improve learning outcomes.
• Develop social skills and friendships.
• Access therapeutic and pastoral support.
• Increase confidence and emotional wellbeing.

Research consistently shows that children who attend school regularly make better progress and achieve more positive long-term outcomes.

Our Approach

We work closely with pupils, families and professionals to:

• Identify barriers to attendance early.
• Provide tailored support.
• Develop reintegration plans where necessary.
• Promote positive attendance through encouragement and praise.
• Reduce anxiety and support emotional wellbeing.
• Ensure every child feels safe, welcome and valued.

Attendance and Safeguarding

Attendance is a safeguarding issue.

We carefully monitor attendance, punctuality and patterns of absence because poor attendance may sometimes indicate that a child is experiencing difficulties, vulnerability or risk.

In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE) and Working Together to Safeguard Children, concerns relating to attendance are reviewed promptly and may involve:

• Meetings with parents/carers.
• Early Help support.
• Multi-agency working.
• Referrals to external support services.
• Escalation where safeguarding concerns are identified.

Supporting Families

We recognise that attendance difficulties are often complex. Our aim is always to work in partnership with families to understand barriers and provide appropriate support.

If you require support with your child's attendance, please contact:

Attendance Lead: Imran Bashir

Attendance and Well-being Officer: Sarah Middleton

Telephone: 0114 245 6305

Email: smiddleton@nexusmat.org