The first day back shapes everything that follows more than any other single day.

What’s included:

Why returns are high-risk moments, and what actually predicts a successful one
Before the return, the first day, and the first two weeks - practical, not theoretical
What not to do -the common mistakes that undermine an otherwise good plan
Five dedicated sections: illness/medical absence, exclusion/suspension, a child protection or care episode, EBSA, and bereavement or loss
What to do when it isn’t going well
A one-page quick reference checklist

Who it’s for: DSLs, Heads of Year and pastoral leads managing any student’s return after significant absence, whatever the cause.

Pairs naturally with the Reintegration Meeting Template (the record) and, for EBSA specifically, the EBSA Support & Attendance Tracker (the graduated plan).