Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for student progress and achievement. We expect students to attend every day, arrive on time, and be ready to learn. Consistent attendance ensures steady learning and full participation in school life. Attendance and punctuality are closely monitored, and concerns will be followed up with whānau. By working together, we can ensure every student makes the most of the opportunities available at Aquinas and reaches their full potential.
Absences
Being on time is a sign of respect for teachers and peers. Arriving late disrupts both the student’s learning and the learning of others. Students are expected to be in class and ready when the bell rings.
- Families must notify the college if a student is away, late, or leaving early.
- Absences can be reported via SchoolBridge or by calling the 24-hour Absentee Line on 543-2400 (Ext. 1).
- Students arriving late to school must sign in at Student Services in the Wellness Centre.
- If no notification is received, parents will be sent a text informing them of the unexplained absence.
- If your child is leaving with another parent, please give written or verbal consent beforehand.
Planned Absences
For absences of three days or more, permission must be sought from the Principal. Email
executiveassistant@aquinas.school.nz. This is a Ministry of Education requirement.
Holidays during term time are strongly discouraged, as they are considered unjustified absences. These cause students to miss valuable learning, and teachers are not expected to provide catch-up programmes.
Contacting Your Child at School
In line with Government policy, Aquinas College operates a phone-free environment during school hours, which means direct communication between parents and students is limited. Voicemail, texts, and emails to reach students during the day are discouraged. To ensure smooth and timely communication for unscheduled appointments, early pickups, or urgent messages, please follow these guidelines:
- Pre-Arrange Pickups: Whenever possible, arrange pickup times with your child at home before school. Use the SchoolBridge app to obtain an exit pass for appointments.
- Urgent Messages: To get an urgent message to your child, please phone the school office before 3:00 pm.
- Early Pickups: Your child will leave class at the approved time and sign out at Student Services, where they will wait until their caregiver arrives at Reception.
First Aid
If a student feels unwell, they must report to the sick bay at Student Services, where they will be assessed and caregivers called. Students should not contact parents directly.