At Castleford Academy, we place the highest value on attendance because every day in school matters. Being present allows pupils to make the most of the opportunities available, build strong friendships, develop character and social skills, and access high-quality teaching. Excellent attendance is directly linked to academic success, wellbeing, and life chances beyond school.

We strive for 100% attendance for every pupil, but we expect all pupils to maintain at least 97% attendance, which equates to no more than six days absent across the academic year. We understand that occasional absence may be necessary due to illness, but we encourage every child to attend school consistently to maximise learning, wellbeing, and personal development.

Why Good Attendance Matters

Regular attendance helps pupils:

• Build friendships and feel part of a supportive school community
• Develop life skills, self-discipline, and resilience
• Engage fully with learning and achieve their academic potential
• Reduce the risk of social isolation or negative behaviours

Pupils with excellent attendance are more likely to:

• Achieve higher grades and make strong progress in their subjects
• Secure places at college, university, or training programmes
• Establish positive habits for work and life
• Maintain lasting friendships

Attendance Process

If your child is absent, please contact the Attendance Team before 8.30am on the first day of absence with the reason.

• If no communication is received, our Attendance Officer will call home.
• In cases of concern, a member of the Attendance Team may visit your home to discuss attendance, offer support, and complete a safeguarding check.
• The school works closely with Wakefield Council and may escalate cases of persistently poor attendance in line with statutory guidance.

Rewarding Excellent Attendance

At Castleford Academy, we celebrate pupils who demonstrate commitment to being in school every day. Alongside academic achievement and living our values of Care, Aspire, Succeed, pupils with 100% attendance, or those who maintain 95%+ attendance since September, are recognised through rewards such as:

• Termly celebration events with activities, treats, and fun competitions
• Recognition during assemblies and form time
• Spot prizes, raffles, and other ongoing incentives

We know that every day counts, and every pupil counts too. By working together, we can give every child the chance to achieve their full potential.

Attendance Policy

The full Attendance Policy can be found on our Policies page.