The Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) provides guidance to schools and communities to address every absence early.

The percentage of students attending regularly is very low in New Zealand compared to many other countries. Lifting school attendance is crucial for future success.

The STAR:

• sets the direction so that no student will be left to accumulate absences without an appropriate response to return them to regular attendance

• will help us achieve the Government’s target of 80% of students present for 90% of the term by 2030

• tells us what should happen when students do not attend school

As a kura we are strengthing our systems of following up on attendance concerns so that they align with the STAR framework.

It sets clear expectations that school attendance is a priority, and that:

• parents will work with the school, the Ministry and other agencies where required, to return children to regular attendance and participate in the supports

• schools and the Ministry of Education will take action when student absence is a concern.

The Ministry will not prosecute parents of students who are absent because of chronic illness or health conditions associated with a disability, or who are genuinely engaging with a school and the supports offered.