Culture, systems and practice: Culture

Key elements which promote an inclusive and caring culture are outlined below. This is designed to be used as a ‘quick check’ that will help establishments to quickly identify the elements of where they should focus their self-evaluation efforts to improve attendance and engagement. When areas for further development have been identified, Promoting attendance self-reflection questions for educational-settings will support both the self-evaluation and planning process.

List of elements

• Clear leadership is in place to drive forward improvement 
• Equity and inclusion are embedded  
• Compassionate, flexible relationships are in place 
• Support is available for families to build their confidence  
• Feelings of safety and belonging for all are prioritised  
• Universal and targeted approaches to improve attendance and engagement are balanced  
• The views and contributions of parents and carers, partners and community members are valued  
• All stakeholders understand the importance of attendance and engagement 
• Evidence of cross-sector working - avoiding a discrete problem-solving approach   
• Clear arrangements for effective transitions are in place 
• Staff wellbeing is supported effectively 
• Whole-school approaches to mental-health and wellbeing in place 
• Consistency of language and understanding of approaches to promote an inclusive and caring culture, underpinned by professional learning