Every Day Matters: A Statement on Attendance

In Aotearoa New Zealand, school attendance is the foundation for our children's future. As of 2026, the Ministry of Education has intensified its focus on attendance, recognizing that every day a student is in class is a vital investment in their long-term success.

The Government Attendance Goal

The New Zealand Government has set a clear national target: 80% of students should be attending school "regularly" by 2030. In our schools, "regular attendance" is defined as being present for more than 90% of the school term. To meet this, a student should miss no more than five days per term—roughly one day every fortnight. Every school is now required to have a formal Attendance Management Plan in place to support families in reaching these targets.

The Link to Achievement

Evidence consistently shows a direct relationship between attendance and academic success.

• Sequential Learning: In primary school, regular attendance is critical for core literacy and numeracy. Learning is cumulative; when children miss school, they miss the building blocks required for the next lesson.

• Social Development: Attendance is where children build social skills, develop friendships, and foster a sense of belonging and routine.

• No "Safe" Absence: Research indicates that even small amounts of missed time can lead to gaps in learning that become increasingly difficult to bridge over time.

The Importance of Attending Kura

For those in Māori-medium education, attending kura regularly carries profound cultural significance.

• Language Fluency: Consistent exposure to Te Reo Māori is essential. Missing days disrupts the immersion environment, making it harder for tamariki to sustain their language growth.

• Identity and Tikanga: Kura provide a space where identity and mātauranga Māori are lived. Being present allows tamariki to grow secure in their culture.

• Whanaungatanga: Attendance strengthens the ties between whānau and the community, ensuring the "village" remains strong in supporting the child’s journey.

"He waka eke noa" — We are all in this boat together. Supporting regular attendance is a shared responsibility between the school, the whānau, and the community to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.