A reminder that students should be on site at school by 8.25.a.m. at the latest, with registration taken at 8.30.a.m. Any student arriving after this time will be marked late, with sanctions issued for persistent offenders. We realise that there are occasional issues with some of the buses and this is taken into consideration. We expect all parents to reinforce the value and importance of good punctuality.
We also wish to inform parents that our school attendance target is 98%. Any student falling below this target will be highlighted as a cause for concern, and monitored for improvement.
ATTENDANCE - FAQ'S
What are a parents/carers responsibilities with regard to School Attendance?
Parents/carers are required by law to ensure that all children of compulsory school age (aged 5 to 16) receive a full time education either by registering a child at a school or be arranging an alternative to school in line with the Education Departments’ Policy.
These responsibilities extend beyond ensuring regular attendance and punctuality, it requires parents/carers to make certain that each child arrives at school on time, appropriately dressed with the correct equipment and prepared for learning.
Parents/carers can support their child/ren by keeping requests for absence to a minimum. It should not be automatically assumed that schools will agree to absence requests. Nor should unjustified absences from school be condoned. If a student is unable to attend school for whatever reason, parents/carers are responsible for notifying the school on the first day of absence and to keep the school updated on subsequent days.
Parents/carers should work in partnership with schools in all matters concerning their child/ren’s education by actively supporting school policies on attendance, punctuality, behaviour and homework.
Why should I avoid taking my child/ren out of school in term time?
Parents/carers should avoid taking their child/ren out of school during term time. Such absences can seriously disrupt continuity of learning.
What if I want to ask for Leave in Term Time for my child?
The Education Department does not, at any time, support leave during term time, however, in exceptional circumstances head teachers have the discretionary power to grant leave in accordance with the Education Department Attendance Policy.
Each case should be considered carefully taking into account:
- The age of the child;
- The time of year;
- The nature and purpose of the trip;
- Family circumstances;
- Attendance pattern of the pupil;
- Previous requests.
Parents do not have the automatic right to withdraw their child/ren from school and must request permission in advance from the head teacher complete a “Request for leave in term time” application form available on the school website or from reception. Permission is only authorised in exceptional circumstances.
What sort of requests maybe refused?
Examples of Rejected Requests for Leave:
- Concerts/shows/’treats’;
- Cheap Travel;
- Convenience.
