Reframing school attendance: Why every day matters
Season three of the Schools North East Podcast continues with a deep dive into one of education’s most urgent challenges: attendance. With the North East consistently ranking at the bottom of national tables for school attendance (particularly among disadvantaged and white working-class pupils) this episode explores why every missed day matters and what schools can do to bring children back into classrooms.
Chris Zarraga is joined by Hilary Robinson, Attendance Lead at Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust, and Angela McCann, Head Teacher of St. Alphonsus Catholic Primary School.
Together, they share how their schools are reshaping attendance culture with practical solutions that focus on relationships, consistency, and community.
Attendance is about more than numbers
Poor attendance isn’t just a statistic — it’s a barrier to opportunity. Hilary and Angela unpack how absence is closely linked to lower attainment, poorer mental health, and long-term socio-economic outcomes.
They argue that improving attendance is about breaking cycles of disadvantage and giving children stability, routines, and a sense of belonging.
Culture change, not quick fixes
Both leaders stress that punitive approaches alone don’t work. Instead, they highlight whole-school strategies such as attendance “heroes,” reward systems, and early intervention plans. These initiatives turn attendance into something positive — celebrating small wins, keeping pupils motivated, and giving every child a chance to succeed regardless of their starting point.
Trust and family engagement are key
A recurring theme is the importance of building trust with parents, many of whom may have had negative experiences of school themselves. From home visits to community eco-shops, Hilary and Angela show how creative approaches can break down barriers, engage families, and get everyone working together to improve attendance.
This episode is full of actionable ideas for school leaders, teachers, and policymakers who want to close attendance gaps and create happier, more resilient school communities.
Listen to the full episode now.
Join us as a guest on the Schools North East Podcast
Ready to share your insights around education in the North East? We’re seeking guest speakers from North East schools to participate in our podcast. If you’re interested, we’d love for you to get in touch.
From caretakers to school and trust leaders, we want to hear your voice! The Schools North East Podcast welcomes all staff to share their experiences. Apply today for this unique opportunity and share your expertise, opinions, and strategies for transforming learning in our region. Apply now.