Dear Students,
Think about this…
If someone offered you £750 to come to school today, would you take it? Because that’s what being in class is worth in the long run!
You might not realise it now, but every day in school adds up to real money in your future. Here’s the reality:
Skipping school is expensive
• Missing just one day between Years 7 and 11 could cost you around £750 in future earnings.
• If you miss 13 days, it’s like dropping one whole GCSE grade—and that could shut doors to jobs, apprenticeships, or college places.
• By the time you’re 28, here’s what people are earning based on their school attendance:
• 95%+ attendance: around £32,200 per year.
• Persistently absent (missing 10%+ of school): £19,500 per year—over £10,000 less.
• Severely absent (missing half of school): £10,100 per year—barely enough to get by.
Why does this happen?
• Better attendance = better grades = better qualifications = better jobs = more money.
• Employers look at GCSEs. Low grades mean fewer opportunities.
• Even on days you don’t love school, just being there builds skills that help you later.
How to stay on track
We get it—life happens. But here’s how you can take control:
• Aim for at least 97%-100% attendance – that’s no more than 0-6 days off per year.
• Plan ahead – try to schedule appointments outside school hours.
• Catch up fast – if you do miss a day, don’t let it pile up. Ask for notes, get help, stay on track.
• Remember the bigger picture – every lesson brings you closer to more money, more choices, and a better future.
So next time you think about skipping a day, ask yourself: Is it really worth losing out on £750… or even £10,000?
Your future self will thank you.