In the ongoing pursuit of fostering regular attendance as a cornerstone of children's education, Tidemill Academy has emerged as a beacon of excellence. Recently approved by the Department for Education (DFE), Tidemill Academy is the latest addition to the prestigious list of Attendance Hubs, taking a pivotal role in supporting and guiding schools across England in boosting their attendance rates.
Attendance Hubs, a government-backed initiative, are led by schools with exceptional attendance records. These hubs serve as platforms for the exchange of practical ideas among primary, secondary, alternative provision, and special schools striving to enhance their attendance.
Improving attendance is not just about meeting targets; it is about laying the foundation for academic success, positively impacting mental health and wellbeing. Evidence consistently shows a positive correlation between higher attendance and academic success across all key stages. Moreover, regular attendance contributes to the mental health and wellbeing of young people, emphasizing the holistic impact of education on the lives of students.
Tidemill Academy was identified as an ideal candidate for an Attendance Hub due to its exemplary attendance records and high levels of attainment. As a hub school, Tidemill is tasked with sharing its effective systems, processes, and attendance resources with a group of school leaders facing similar challenges. The hub group, including Tidemill, will convene regularly to discuss strategies, challenges, and successes in the realm of attendance improvement.
Encouraging a sector-led approach to address high absence is at the core of this initiative. Leveraging the existing expertise within schools and trusts, the aim is to create a collaborative environment where successful practices can be shared, refined, and implemented to tackle attendance challenges. The peer support basis of the hub meetings facilitates an ongoing professional dialogue among school leaders, fostering a community dedicated to overcoming the common obstacle of high absence.
In the spirit of collaboration and shared expertise, Tidemill Academy and other hub lead schools are driving positive change, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive through consistent and meaningful attendance.
