School Attendance linked to Well-being and Achievement

Dear Parents

I have done some interesting reading recently on the correlation between school attendance and achievement and school attendance and wellbeing. I am sure it comes as no surprise to find that those who attend school regularly do better academically and enjoy school more, on the whole, than those who do not. Every day missed is a learning opportunity missed. Engagement in learning can wane, as they have missed the learning others are now able to do and understand. Falling behind academically, due to low attendance at school, opens the doors to feelings of inadequacy and failure which lead to low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Ultimately this all leads to less options to choose from when deciding upon a career path when older.

What I also discovered was the possible effect of regularly missing school has on a child’s wellbeing and social development. A lack of a feeling of belonging can set in, where students can feel isolated or alienated from their peers. Higher rates of anxiety have been found in students who regularly miss school. Attending school intermittently can cause disruption to friendships and even the inability to form lasting friendships, which require time and being together.

The life skills of punctuality, reliability and a healthy, committed work ethic are so important for success in the work force and in life. God calls us to be people of excellence and to do all things as unto Him. It is mine and the staff of JCS’ desire to see your children be the best they can be, to be given every opportunity to be dynamic contributors in society, changing the world they live in for the Kingdom of Heaven, with confidence. 

May they be Christ-centred, confident, connected, contributing and continually learning for the glory of God.

Yours in His service

Sandra Bosman