Attendance

The Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) framework provides clear guidance for schools and communities to identify and respond to student absences early and effectively.

Currently, the proportion of students attending school regularly in New Zealand is significantly lower than in many comparable countries. Improving attendance is therefore a national priority, as regular attendance is strongly linked to positive learning outcomes, well-being, and long-term success.

The STAR framework:

• sets clear expectations to ensure no student accumulates absences without timely and appropriate support to re-engage them in regular attendance
• supports schools to contribute to the Government’s target of 80% of students attending school for at least 90% of the term by 2030
• outlines consistent, graduated responses when students do not attend school

As a kura, we are strengthening our attendance monitoring and follow-up systems to ensure they align with the STAR framework, enabling early intervention, consistent responses, and stronger partnerships with whānau to support regular attendance for all learners.

We recognise that every whānau’s circumstances are different, and our starting point is always understanding and support. The STAR framework helps ensure that concerns around attendance are identified early and responded to consistently, so students remain connected to their learning and are well supported to thrive.

If you have any concerns about your child’s attendance, or if your whānau is navigating challenges that are impacting on coming to school, please reach out to us. By working together, we can make regular attendance positive, achievable, and successful for every learner.

Responding to all absences

Decision Tree

Descriptions