Being a teenager is tough. There’s too much homework, too many chores, and way too many Mondays left in the year. And when the final of Taskmaster is streaming—going to school is the last thing you want to do. But whether it’s because you slept in, or your dog ate your bike, just go.
Your attendance needs your attention
Sleep-ins. Monday-itis. Gaming till 3am. Whatever the reason, it’s time to take school seriously. We need to work together to make your education a priority. It’s not just about showing up to class, it’s about showing up for yourself. Ditch the excuses, just go.
How caregivers can help •
How caregivers can help •
Set high expectations:
Talk to your child about why attending school every day is important for their learning and future.
Stay connected with your school:
Reach out if your child is struggling with attendance. We are here to help with support or guidance.
Celebrate milestones:
Acknowledge your child’s effort in showing up every day—it makes a difference.
Hold up, why is school attendance even important?
Regular attendance can lead to positive academic outcomes, both within school life and after graduation.
Prioritising attendance can lead to better long-term mental health and social functioning.
Every day at school is full of opportunities that can lead to life experiences that go beyond the school grounds.
Research tells us that regular attendance improves not just academic success but also overall wellbeing, friendships, and pathways to further study or employment.
An Open Letter to our School Communities
Kia ora e te whānau,
Your child’s future starts with attending school every day. Yet in Nelson and Richmond, as in the rest of New Zealand, regular attendance has declined significantly over the past decade. Less than 45% of high school aged students in our region are present for at least 90% of the school year (2024 data).
We know that every missed day of school is a missed opportunity for students to grow, build relationships, and develop skills that will shape their future. Research tells us that regular attendance improves not just academic success but also overall wellbeing, friendships, and pathways to further study or employment.
As Principals of Garin College, Nayland College, Nelson College, Nelson College for Girls and Waimea College, we are united with our local councils and the Ministry of Education in launching a 2025 regional campaign to lift attendance and engagement. Together, we’re committed to working with you, our most important partners, to help your child succeed.
How You Can Help
Your encouragement and involvement play a vital role in your child’s success. Here’s how you can support:
Set high expectations: Talk to your child about why attending school every day is important for their learning and future.
Stay connected with your school: Reach out if your child is struggling with attendance. We are here to help with support or guidance.
Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge your child’s effort in showing up every day—it makes a difference.
Together, we can ensure that every student in Nelson and Richmond thrives. Let’s make 2025 a year where attendance improves, achievement soars, and every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Thank you for being a crucial part of this journey.
Ngā mihi nui,
John Maguire
Principal,
Garin College
Daniel Wilson
Principal,
Nayland College
Richard Washington
Principal,
Nelson College
Fraser Hill
Principal,
Waimea College
Claire O’Fee
Tumuaki,
Nelson College for Girls