Our Commitment to Your Child’s Success

At Heathland School, we are committed to helping your child reach their full potential—academically, socially, and emotionally. To achieve this, regular and punctual attendance is essential. Every day in school counts: each lesson builds on the last, and missing time can affect your child’s progress, confidence, and sense of belonging. 

Being in school every day also supports your child’s wellbeing, helps them stay connected with friends, and strengthens the routines that make them feel safe and supported. 

What the Research Shows

Research by the Department for Education (DfE) shows a direct correlation between good attendance and higher educational achievement and attainment. Pupils with no absence are more than twice as likely to meet expected standards in reading, writing, and maths.

Studies also show that regular attendance:

• Supports children’s emotional wellbeing
  
  
• Helps them build and maintain friendships
  
  
• Reduces the risk of loneliness, anxiety, or disengagement from school life
  
  
• Lowers the risk of involvement in antisocial behaviour or crime
  
  
• Improves long-term employment prospects and earning potential

Attendance Tracker: What Attendance Percentages Mean

Monitoring Attendance with Harrow Council’s Attendance Team 

At Heathland, we expect all children to have excellent attendance (98–100%), as it is vital for their learning, wellbeing, and future success.

We monitor attendance weekly and work closely with the Harrow Council Attendance Team to help support families who are finding it difficult to secure excellent and good attendance.

Term-Time Holidays

Heathland School does not authorise any family holidays during term time. This follows national guidance which states that schools should not approve holidays unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Parents who take their children out of school during term time are likely to receive a Fixed Penalty Notice issued by Harrow Council. 

Support from School

We want every child to enjoy school, feel confident and included and have excellent attendance, so they have every opportunity to reach their full potential. If you are experiencing any difficulties with securing your child’s good attendance, please let out us know—we are here to help. By working together, we can address concerns early and offer the right support.