School Education Act 1999 and the Student Attendance Policy

The School Education Act 1999 and the School Education Regulations 2000 provide the statutory framework for the operation of all schools in Western Australia.  This legislation applies to the operation of public (government), private (non-government) schools and to families choosing to register as their child’s home educator.

It also provides the framework for options available to young people in year 11 and 12 as part of the raised leaving age.

The Student Attendance Policy outlines the mandated procedures for managing student attendance within WA public schools.

Though all school staff are vital in supporting regular student attendance, the principal is responsible for:

• the accurate recording and rigorous monitoring of the attendance of all students;
• identifying students with attendance issues; and
• implementing appropriate strategies to restore regular attendance.