How should schools respond when attendance anxiety increases on Sunday evenings?

Ask what Monday means to this pupil

Discuss the timetable, journey, first lesson, homework, peer interactions and any change of staff. Ask when the worry begins and what the pupil anticipates. A short written or visual account may be easier than a broad question about school. Check for bullying, inaccessible work or an unresolved incident rather than assuming the weekend itself is the cause.

Prepare on Friday while school can act

Confirm the Monday entrance, greeting and first activity. Make materials or essential instructions available and explain any known change. Agree a single contact route for the family and clarify when it is monitored; do not imply weekend availability that staff cannot provide. Keep the plan brief enough to use when everyone is tired.

Check Monday without creating an interrogation

A known adult can acknowledge arrival and help the pupil begin, then arrange a later private conversation if needed. Review whether the plan reduced uncertainty, supported participation and made Sunday evening more manageable. If worry continues, change the part that remains difficult and coordinate wider support through the SENCo and attendance lead.