Attendance
Regular attendance is vital for every student’s success.
Research from the Department for Education shows that even a few days of absence can have a significant impact on learning and future outcomes. Every lesson builds on the last, so missing school means missing essential knowledge, skills and opportunities. In recognition of this, the Department for Education place a requirement on all parents and carers, enforceable under law, to ensure that children in their care regularly attend the educational establishment of their choosing. At UTC Plymouth, our goal is to make sure that every child that has elected to attend the school is safe, supported and developing both academically and socially. Good attendance is the absolute key to achieving this.
Attendance also supports wellbeing. Being in school helps students feel part of the community, build friendships and access pastoral care. At UTC Plymouth, we know that every moment matters. Consistent attendance is the foundation for achievement, confidence and long‑term success.
What Happens When Students Miss School?
Missing school disrupts learning. According to UK guidance, students who are persistently absent often struggle to keep up academically, find it harder to maintain friendships and may feel isolated. Teachers cannot always provide the extra time needed to catch up, meaning gaps in knowledge can quickly grow.
Absence also affects future opportunities. Employers and Universities look closely at attendance records, and poor attendance can limit choices later in life.
What Happens If Students Miss an Important Exam or Mock Exam
Exams and mock exams are critical checkpoints. If a student misses a mock exam, the subject teacher may arrange a resit, without the replication of full exam conditions. This is a missed opportunity and experience and means teachers have less evidence used to drive progress and areas for improvement.
Missing a formal exam is more serious. Awarding bodies may allow “special consideration” if absence is due to illness or other valid reasons but this is rare and limited. It cannot replace the importance of sitting the exam. Students risk not receiving a grade or having their final results affected due to the exam board using an evidence based, estimated grade.
What You Should Do If Your Child Cannot Attend School
If your child cannot attend school, you must inform UTC Plymouth as soon as possible. Absences should be reported by the app before the start of the school day (8.30am), stating the reason. This ensures we can record the absence correctly and provide support if needed. Please be sure not to email or call unless in emergencies. This is to ensure no emails are missed and phone lines are kept clear for any and all emergencies.
For medical appointments, please provide evidence (such as an appointment letter). These can be forwarded to the attendance inbox (attendance@utcplymouth.org ). For longer absences, we may request further information to ensure safeguarding and continuity of learning.
When Your Child Should Not Attend School
Children should not attend school if they are unwell with contagious illnesses or if advised by a medical professional. In these cases, keeping them at home protects both their recovery and the health of others.
However, minor ailments such as colds, sore throats or headaches should not normally prevent attendance. If in doubt, please contact the school for guidance.
Additional Information
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Attendance Targets: UTC Plymouth expects all students to aim for at least 96% attendance.
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Support for Families: If you are experiencing difficulties that affect attendance (such as transport, health, or language barriers), please contact us. We work closely with families to remove barriers and provide support.
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Legal Responsibilities: Parents/carers have a duty to ensure their child attends school regularly. Persistent absence may lead to intervention from the local authority.