A new initiative has been introduced in North Lanarkshire aimed at encouraging families to prioritise school attendance. The campaign, titled ‘Every Moment Matters’, seeks to highlight the benefits of regular school attendance while also acknowledging the challenges many families face, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic and amid ongoing cost of living pressures.
The campaign emphasizes the positive aspects of attending school, including teamwork, essential life skills, and personal achievements. Pupils are encouraged to share their experiences, describing what they miss when they are not in school. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support both parents and students in overcoming barriers to attendance.
Support Systems and Resources Available
Councillor Michael McBride, convener of education, children and families, expressed the importance of community collaboration. “Our schools are working closely with families to offer tailored support around school attendance and to implement small steps that can make a significant difference over time.”
One key element of this support is the involvement of Family Engagement Support Assistants (FESAs). These professionals are dedicated to helping families navigate obstacles to regular school attendance. They work to improve communication between families and schools, bolster children’s confidence, and ultimately ensure that more students are attending and thriving in their educational environments.
Regular attendance is crucial for students, as it not only helps them forge friendships but also allows them to develop essential life skills and a sense of belonging. Participating in extracurricular activities, such as sports and music, further enriches their school experience.
Schools in North Lanarkshire are implementing practical solutions to facilitate attendance. Initiatives like breakfast clubs and Future Fridays aim to ease morning routines and foster positive habits. Parents are encouraged to plan non-urgent appointments outside school hours and communicate openly with teachers. Reporting absences promptly and addressing any concerns with school staff can significantly impact a child’s attendance.
Addressing Attendance Anxiety
For children experiencing anxiety about attending school, the campaign stresses that staying home can make returning more difficult. Families are encouraged to reach out to school staff as the first step in seeking support. Trained professionals are available to listen and provide tailored assistance, ensuring that students feel safe and confident in their school environment.
Additional resources are accessible through organizations such as Parent Club, ParentLine Scotland, and Enquire. These organizations offer guidance on navigating barriers like anxiety and bullying, as well as information on educational rights and responsibilities.
The core message of the ‘Every Moment Matters’ campaign is one of collaboration. It calls for parents, schools, and communities to work together to ensure that every child feels supported and valued. To assist in promoting this initiative, toolkits will be distributed to all high schools in the area. These toolkits will include posters, informational leaflets for parents, social media assets, and more, all designed to reinforce the campaign’s objectives.
In summary, the ‘Every Moment Matters’ campaign in North Lanarkshire represents a concerted effort to improve school attendance by providing support and resources to families. By fostering cooperation between schools and communities, the initiative aims to create a more supportive environment for all students.
