Attendance at Our School

At our school, every day matters. Coming to school every day and arriving on time helps children feel secure, build friendships and make the most of their learning. We know that good attendance is one of the biggest factors in a child’s success, both academically and socially. Missing just a few days can have a real impact over time.

That said, we also understand that life can be challenging. Our approach to attendance is firm, fair and supportive. We expect children to be in school every day, but we are here to help when families are facing difficulties.

Our aim is always to work in partnership with parents and carers to make sure every child feels able and supported to attend.

You can view our Pupil Attendance Policy on our policies page by clicking here

Why Attendance Is So Important

Being in school every day helps children to:

• Build strong friendships and feel part of the school community
• Develop confidence and independence
• Keep up with learning and avoid gaps forming
• Feel safe, settled and supported
• Develop positive routines that prepare them for later life

Research and national guidance are clear that absence can quickly become a barrier to learning, especially when it becomes a pattern. Even small amounts of missed school add up over time.

Our Expectations

We expect that:

• Children attend school every day unless they are genuinely unwell
• Children arrive on time, ready to learn – school gates open at 8.45am and close at 8.55am.  Any child that arrives after 9:25am will be marked with a U code, equivalent to an unauthorised absence. 
• Parents and carers contact school promptly if their child is absent
• Appointments are arranged outside school hours wherever possible
• Holidays are not taken during term time

These expectations help keep children safe and supported and ensure that learning is not disrupted.

Being On Time Matters Too

Our school day starts on time so that children can begin learning calmly and confidently.

Arriving late can be unsettling for children and means they miss important teaching and routines. Repeated lateness also adds up to lost learning time.

If punctuality is difficult, please speak to us. We would much rather support early than allow patterns to develop.

When Children Are Unwell

We recognise that children do sometimes need to stay at home when they are ill.

If your child is too unwell to attend school, please contact the school office on the first day of absence by 9.30am and each day thereafter. In line with guidance, we may ask for further information or medical evidence if absences continue.

Helpful advice about common childhood illnesses can be found on the NHS website:
Is my child too ill for school?

How We Support Good Attendance

Our approach to attendance is based on support first. When attendance starts to dip, we will:

• Check in early with families
• Listen carefully to concerns and barriers
• Work together to find solutions
• Offer practical and pastoral support
• Monitor attendance to make sure things improve

Most attendance concerns are resolved quickly when schools and families work together openly.

When Additional Support Is Needed

If attendance continues to be a concern, we follow a graduated approach in line with national guidance.

This means support may include:

• Meetings to talk through barriers
• Individual attendance plans
• Support from pastoral staff or external agencies
• Regular check ins to celebrate improvement

Formal processes are always a last resort and only used when support has not been successful or engagement has broken down. Our priority is always to help children back into school.

Working In Partnership With Families

We believe the best outcomes happen when school and home work together. No issue is too small to share. Early conversations help prevent bigger problems later.

Please talk to us if:

• Your child feels anxious about coming to school
• There are changes at home impacting attendance
• Health or wellbeing concerns are affecting mornings
• You are unsure whether your child should attend

Term Time Leave

Government guidance is clear that holidays should not be taken during term time.

Absence for holidays will not usually be authorised and may result in a penalty notice being issued by the local authority. If you have exceptional circumstances, please complete a leave of absence request form in advance of the trip (at least 2 weeks prior). 

Our Commitment

We are committed to:

• High expectations for attendance and punctuality
• Fair and consistent application of attendance procedures
• Safe and supportive communication with families
• Early help when challenges arise
• Celebrating improved attendance and effort

We care deeply about our pupils and want every child to thrive. Regular attendance is a key part of making that happen. If you have any concerns about attendance, please contact the school office or speak to a member of the leadership team.

We are here to help.