Regular attendance at school is essential for every student to achieve their full potential. Valley State College is committed to supporting all students from Preschool to Year 12 to attend school every day, on time, and ready to learn.
This policy outlines the expectations and procedures relating to student attendance at Valley State College. The College works in partnership with families to promote regular attendance and student engagement.
Valley State College recognises that regular attendance supports academic achievement, social development, wellbeing, and future success. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students.
Teachers mark attendance at the start of each school day and at the beginning of each timetabled session. Attendance records are maintained in accordance with ACT Education Directorate requirements.
Parents/carers should notify the College as soon as possible if a student will be absent. Notification may occur through:
Students arriving late must sign in through the Front Office. Students leaving early during the school day must be signed out by a parent/carer or approved contact.
The College understands that students and families may sometimes face barriers to regular
attendance. Support may include wellbeing assistance, learning support, attendance plans, or referral
to appropriate external services.
Where attendance becomes a concern, the College may implement a staged response which may include:
Under ACT legislation, parents/carers have a legal responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly unless a reasonable excuse exists.
This policy will be reviewed every two years or in response to legislative or operational changes.
Last Updated: May 2026 Next Review: May 2028
