Why attendance matters
Regular attendance is essential for students’ learning, wellbeing, and friendships. Being at school every day supports strong learning progress, positive relationships, and a sense of belonging.
Nationally, the goal is for students to attend school at least 90% of the time. Puketapu School is committed to steadily improving attendance so all ākonga have the best opportunity to reach their full potential.
Our goal
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Currently, around 50% of students attend school 90% of the time or more
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Our target is to increase this to at least 60% by the end of 2026
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We prioritise early support and work closely with whānau to address challenges as they arise
Working together
Puketapu School encourages families and whānau to support regular attendance by:
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Ensuring students attend school every day they are able
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Letting the school know as soon as possible when a student is absent, and why
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Supporting positive daily routines and staying in touch if difficulties occur
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Using Hero to keep track of attendance information
How absences are followed up
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Class rolls are marked twice daily
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Unexplained absences are followed up by text, then phone call, then email
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Attendance patterns are reviewed weekly
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The Board receives attendance reports each term
The school’s attendance plan is reviewed regularly and is available on the school website. The current plan can be viewed at Puketapu Attendance Management Plan 2026.
Our approach
Our approach to attendance is guided by our school values: Manaakitanga, Kaitiakitanga, Māia, and Whanaungatanga.
We take a supportive and relational approach that focuses on understanding and removing barriers to attendance, rather than punishment. A Stepped Attendance Response is used to ensure the right level of support is provided at the right time:
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0–4 days: Absences are recorded and followed up
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5–9 days: Teacher contact with whānau and offers of support
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10–14 days: Principal contact, meeting, and a support plan
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15+ days: Additional support and possible involvement of Attendance Services
Need support?
If attendance is a concern, early contact with the school is encouraged. Puketapu School is committed to working alongside students, families, and whānau to support regular attendance.
