It is very important that children are punctual and have good attendance. There is clear evidence to suggest that attendance directly affects the attainment and progress of the child – the more often a child attends school, the greater the chance of being more successful academically. Our school closely monitors absences and lateness.
When a child is absent, parents are asked to notify school as soon as possible, preferably before 9.30am on the first day of absence. If a reason is not provided, the school will endeavour to contact the parents or carers on the first morning of absence, for safeguarding reasons. On return to school, a letter explaining the child’s absence should be sent.
Absences for which no explanation is received, or which are not due to ill health, are recorded as unauthorised. The total number of authorised absences is reported to parents in the child’s annual report. If records show that a child has had a significant amount of absences, the parents may be asked to attend school for a meeting with the Headteacher, or the case may be referred to the local authority’s Attendance Team. Following this if a child’s attendance does not improve then further action may be implemented, such as Fixed Penalty Notices. Click here to view more information about fixed penalty notices.
As regards leave during term time, the DfE made amendments to regulations from 1st September 2013. These changes make it clear that Headteachers may not grant any leave during term time, unless there are exceptional circumstances, and give no entitlement to parents to take their child on holiday during term time.
