Get help with attendance

Many families need help with attendance at times. You are not alone – and your child’s school is the best place to start.

Speak to the school

Talk to your child’s:

• class teacher
• SENCO (special educational needs and disabilities coordinator)
• pastoral or wellbeing team

They can help you understand what is happening and what support your child may need.

If your child is anxious or struggling emotionally, the school can help you find support for EBSNA (emotionally based school non‑attendance).

Support for anxiety, SEND or medical needs

The school can:

• make reasonable adjustments
• create or update a support plan
• refer your child for specialist help if needed

If the school needs extra help, they can contact the Surrey Attendance Service for guidance.

If you need more help

Ask the school how to get further support.

You do not need to wait until things get worse — early help makes a big difference.

If your child does not have a school place or you think they may be missing education, the school or council can help you find the right route for support.

You can also speak to our Attendance Service team:

East Surrey

• Email: surreyattendance.serviceeast@surreycc.gov.uk
• Phone: 01737 737778

West Surrey

• Email: SurreyAttendance.ServiceWest@surreycc.gov.uk
• Phone: 01483 518187