Attendance at Carmel College

At Carmel College, regular attendance plays an important role in helping our students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our Attendance Management Plan explains how we support students in Years 7–13, and their whānau, to stay engaged in learning and develop positive attendance habits.

Guided by our Catholic character, we take a caring and proactive approach to attendance. Through strong teaching, pastoral care, and open communication, we work alongside students, families, and support services to understand and address any barriers to attending school. Our focus is always on encouragement, support, and partnership.

We are committed to improving attendance outcomes across the school. Our goal is for 80% of students to attend more than 90% of the school year, in line with the Government’s 2030 target.

 

Late Arrivals 

  • Students arriving late to school must sign in at the office using the ipad or by signing the late sheet
  • Whānau are to report known lateness via the SchoolBridge App prior to the start of the school day

Planned Absences

  • Planned absences must be requested in advance via the SchoolBridge App for more information click here
  • Sport/representative leave requires approval and supporting documentation for more information click here
  • Holidays during term time are considered unjustified absences

Unplanned Absences 

  • Report absences promptly and accurately via SchoolBridge App before the start of the school day
  • If a student is injured or becomes unwell during the school day they must visit the first aid attendant at the school office with permission from a teacher or dean
  • Under no circumstance is a student to phone a parent directly to arrange to go home

 

Our Attendance Management Plan sets out our shared expectations and responsibilities.

 

Roles and Responsibilities

Whānau and caregivers

  • Ensure students attend every day they are able
  • Report absences promptly and accurately via SchoolBridge App
  • Work with the school to address attendance concerns

Students

  • Attend all classes on time
  • Communicate barriers to attendance early
  • Follow school procedures for absences and lateness

School and Board

  • Monitor attendance data and respond early
  • Maintain accurate records
  • Provide appropriate pastoral and academic support
  • Review and publish the Attendance Management Plan annually

How Attendance is Monitored

  • Attendance is recorded every lesson using KAMAR
  • Absences are reported by parents and whānau via the SchoolBridge App
  • Unexplained absences are following up promptly to ensure students safety
  • Attendance data is reviewed weekly by school leaders and reported daily to the Ministry of Education

 

The table below outlines how we support students and whānau at each stage.

You can view our full Attendance Management Plan here.