Pupil-focused approach helps to drive school's success in attendances

A DERBY secondary school has achieved better-than-average attendance after taking the time to listen to its pupils.

- By TELEGRAPH REPORTER

By listening to feedback gathered through its “Pupil Voice” initiative - a scheme where pupils come together to make suggestions to teachers or share their views on school life - staff at The Bemrose School, in Uttoxeter Road, learned that pupils wanted more recognition for their efforts.

In response, the school enhanced its rewards system, recognising attendance, behaviour, attitude and achievement and has since seen attendance rise by one percent, keeping it above the national average.

As part of the changes, pupils were able to earn a range of incentives in the weeks leading up to Christmas, including exclusive use of a cinema screening, private hire of Rollerworld, a trip to Megazone or an educational visit to London's Natural History Museum.

Head teacher Neil Wilkinson said: "At a time when attendance is struggling nationally, we are incredibly proud that our attendance remains above average.

"Within our school, 752 pupils have attendance of over 95 percent, and that is a real achievement.