At our core, PBA believe that regular attendance is the single biggest factor in determining a student's academic outcomes and future life choices. Every lesson, every discussion, and every moment of instruction builds upon the last. When a student misses school, they miss valuable learning opportunities that create gaps in their knowledge, making it increasingly difficult to catch up.

Our internal and national data clearly show that pupils with an attendance rate of 96% or higher are dramatically more likely to achieve the highest grades at GCSE and beyond.

PBA isn't just about exam results; it's about preparing our young people for life beyond a classroom. By prioritising attendance, students develop essential life skills that employers and universities value. Regular attendance and punctuality establish a strong foundation of responsibility, time management, and a robust work ethic. The routines children develop in school—being on time, being prepared, and showing perseverance —are essential habits that underpin success in the modern workplace.

Consistent attendance is important for overall social and emotional development. School is a vital place where young people build strong peer relationships, develop crucial social skills through collaboration, and feel connected to a wider community. Frequent absences can lead to a sense of disconnection and isolation, often resulting in anxiety and making it harder for students to engage with classroom routines and friendships. Being present ensures your child benefits from the full network of pastoral and emotional support our staff provides.

We view attendance as a shared commitment. Parents and carers have a statutory duty to ensure their child receives full-time education. To this end, our minimum attendance expectation is 96%. Any attendance that falls below 90% is classified as Persistent Absence and will trigger official intervention and support measures in partnership with the Local Authority.

We ask that all appointments and holidays are scheduled outside of term time, recognising that authorised absence is only granted in exceptional circumstances or for genuine illness.