Parent Overview – Attendance and SEND

At Oxted School, we understand that attending school regularly is vital for every student’s learning, progress, and wellbeing. We also recognise that for some students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) or neurodiverse profiles (such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or anxiety), attending school every day can sometimes feel challenging.

Our aim is to work closely with families to identify and remove barriers to attendance through understanding, flexibility, and early support.

Our Approach

• Early Identification and Communication: We encourage parents to contact the school as soon as concerns arise. Early conversations help us plan the right support before attendance patterns become a worry
• Individual Support Plans: For students with SEND, the Inclusion Team can review existing support strategies to help reduce stress linked to attendance
• Consistent Relationships: Familiar, trusted adults such as LSAs or keyworkers are available to check in with students, helping them feel safe and supported when arriving at school
• Flexible Transitions: We understand that mornings and changeovers can be difficult. We can agree personalised routines, quiet entry points, or short-term phased returns

How Parents Can Help

• Maintain Routine: Try to keep consistent bedtime, morning, and homework routines, predictability can help reduce anxiety
• Talk Openly: Encourage your child to share how they feel about school. Let us know about any worries or triggers so we can work together on solutions
• Work in Partnership: Stay in regular contact with your child’s Tutor, Year Team, or the Inclusion Team. Small updates (e.g. sleep, medication, or mood changes) can make a big difference in our daily support
• Celebrate Success: Acknowledge small attendance improvements and positive school experiences, progress is often gradual
• Use Support Services: If attendance is affected by mental health or emotional wellbeing, we can signpost to internal and external support such as our Pastoral Team, School Counsellor, or the Surrey Inclusion Service

By talking about school positively and focusing on the parts of the day your child enjoys, you can help build their confidence and motivation to attend. Together, we can reinforce the message that every lesson and every day matters for their learning, wellbeing, and future success.

Below are some useful links for parents to access:

Supporting neurodivergent students who are struggling to attend school

Autism – Advice and Guidance

Young Minds