Attendance & absence
Absence alert — unexplained
We have noted that [PUPIL NAME] is absent from school today and we have not received a reason. Please contact the school office on [PHONE NUMBER] to let us know. Thank you — [SCHOOL NAME]
Keep under 160 characters for single SMS. Adjust to fit — include only phone number if name makes it too long.
Attendance reminder — persistent absence
Dear [PARENT/CARER NAME],
We are writing to share [PUPIL NAME]'s current attendance record, which stands at [%]. The national expectation is 96% attendance or above.
Regular attendance is important for [PUPIL NAME]'s progress and wellbeing. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you — please contact [STAFF NAME] on [CONTACT].
[SCHOOL NAME]
Urgent & school closure
Emergency school closure
URGENT: [SCHOOL NAME] is closed today ([DATE]) due to [REASON]. Please make alternative childcare arrangements. We will update you shortly. Thank you.
Early finish notification
Reminder: [SCHOOL NAME] finishes early at [TIME] on [DATE] due to [REASON]. Please arrange collection or ensure your child knows their arrangements. Thank you.
Weekly & regular updates
Weekly newsletter intro (push / email subject)
This week at [SCHOOL NAME] — [BRIEF HIGHLIGHT e.g. "Year 4's Roman Day, sports results, and a reminder about Tuesday's INSET"]. Tap to read.
Push version should be under 100 characters for the notification text. Link to the full newsletter in the email version.
Start of term welcome back
Welcome back! We hope you had a wonderful [HOLIDAY]. School returns on [DATE] at [TIME]. Key dates for this term are attached. We look forward to seeing everyone. — [SCHOOL NAME]
Events & trips
School trip reminder
Reminder: [YEAR GROUP / CLASS]'s trip to [DESTINATION] is on [DATE]. Children should arrive by [TIME] and will return at approximately [TIME]. Please ensure packed lunch / appropriate clothing. Any questions: [CONTACT]
Parent evening reminder
Reminder: Parents' Evening is on [DATE]. Your appointment for [PUPIL NAME] is at [TIME] with [TEACHER]. Please arrive a few minutes early. See you then — [SCHOOL NAME]
Platform opt-in & onboarding
Introducing MySchoolUpdate — first message to parents
Dear [PARENT/CARER],
[SCHOOL NAME] is switching to MySchoolUpdate for school communications. You will receive future messages via email, and we would like to invite you to also opt in to browser push notifications — instant alerts on your phone or computer with no app to download.
To opt in, simply visit: [SCHOOL LINK] and click "Allow" when prompted. It takes about 20 seconds.
If you have any questions, please contact the school office.
[SCHOOL NAME]
These templates are built into MySchoolUpdate
When you subscribe to MySchoolUpdate, these templates (and many more) are available directly in the platform — pre-formatted for push, SMS, and email, and editable to match your school's voice.
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7 Common Mistakes · Low-Effort Communication · Parent Engagement