Why is it important?

So we know that the law has imposed a legal duty on us to ensure attendance of pupils within school. However, pupils don’t necessarily understand the law. It is simply not relevant to them. Statistics, however, indicate that pupils with good attendance have a better achievement in school. Those with attendance higher than 96% make better progress socially and academically. Children also find learning more satisfying and have fewer gaps in their knowledge. We want to promote the learning to a generation of leaders, artists, artisans, creators and so much more, but we can only do that by ensuring our pupils and your children are gaining access to education through their attendance.

What does the law say about attendance?

All parents have a legal duty to ensure that their child receives an education suitable to their age, ability, special needs and aptitudes. In terms of the Education Act of 1996 and Education and Skills Act 2008, children must legally be in education between the school term after their 5th birthday and the last Friday in June in the school year that they turn 16.

Authorised & Unauthorised Absences

Parents/Carers should always Contact the school on the first morning of all absences; giving a reason and explaining when the child will return. We encourage parents to provide medical evidence for illness. Keep the school updated and after 3 days of absence providing medical evidence. We deter parents to Not book routine medical or dental appointments during school time. Medical appointments are counted as absence on a child’s record. Parents must ensure they provide the school with copies of all medical appointments prior to taking children out of school.

Attendance Letters

Stage 1 This letter is to show that attendance is a concern and we will be monitoring the progress for improvement. Stage 2 This letter is sent to arrange a meeting with the Attendance Officer as Attendance is below average. Stage 3 This letter is sent when Attendance is poor and a meeting is scheduled with the Attendance Officer and Educational Welfare Officer

Stage 2 This letter is sent to arrange a meeting with the Attendance Officer as Attendance is below average.

Stage 3 This letter is sent when Attendance is poor and a meeting is scheduled with the Attendance Officer and Educational Welfare Officer

Term Time Leave

Parents are encouraged to inform the school in writing if you need to travel abroad during term time (leave will only be granted in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the Headteacher & Education Welfare Manager and Attendance Officer).