A neat register is a thing of beauty: a civilised tutor group is a joy to all. You can have both if you prepare yourself properly and make the taking of the register a firm routine.
Things you need to know:
* Where are registers kept, where do they go when completed, how do they get there, and by what time?
* What codes are used to indicate presence, absences authorised and unauthorised, medical appointments, interviews, work experience, study leave, and offsite education?
* What is the school’s definition of lateness? What happens to absence notes?
* What are the other routine tasks for this time? Homework diaries, planners, litter-picking?
In the front line:
* Use the school’s approved procedure for moving pupils into the registration room and for settling them.
* Outdoor clothing off, and pupils quietly settled. Say ‘Good morning’ and insist on a civil response. Call names, insist on a clear response, and tick the boxes. Send the register back - it’s a job for one pupil only, ideally from a rota. Letting more than one pupil go is inviting trouble.
* Latecomers? There will be some kind of signing-in procedure, if the register’s gone. So follow it.
* Make sure that messages get through - they will come either by Tannoy, or you’ll have to read them.
What have you achieved? An accurate attendance list and a positive start to the session - and, probably, a few Brownie points into the bargain.
