School Attendance

Introduction

If you are a parent or are responsible for a child between 5 and 16 who is registered at school, this leaflet explains your responsibilities and offers guidance to ensure regular school attendance.

The Law

The parent of every child of compulsory school age (5 to 16) shall cause him/her to receive efficient full-time education suitable;

(a) to his/her age, ability and aptitude and,
(b) to any special needs he/she may have,

either by regular attendance at school or otherwise. (Section 7 of the Education Act 1996). If a child of compulsory school age who is a registered pupil at a school fails to attend regularly at the school, his/her parent(s) is guilty of an offence.

Absence

Illness - If your child is ill, contact the school on the first day of your child’s illness. Staff will be concerned if they do not hear anything.

Holidays - Parents are strongly urged to avoid booking family holidays in term time. 
Up to ten days holiday/absence may be requested by the parent/guardian, however it is at the discretion of the school as to whether time off will be authorised. The school response will take into consideration such factors as 

• your child's attendance rate
• Academic progress
• External examination commitments         

A holiday in term time form should be completed and returned to the school prior to any holidays being taken.

Information on discounted holidays taken in School Holiday Time can be found at:

http://www.fto.co.uk/every-lesson-counts/

For any other absence - Please contact school on the first day or in advance wherever possible. 

Absence may be authorised - If it is for the following reasons: sickness, unavoidable medical/dental appointments, days of religious observance, exceptional family circumstances e.g. bereavement. 

Absence should not be authorised - for shopping, looking after family members, birthdays or any work (paid or unpaid).

Rights & Responsibilities

Parents
Parents are responsible for ensuring that their child attends school regularly, punctually, properly dressed and in a fit condition to learn. If a child is prevented for any reason from attending, or is late, parents are requested to notify the school on the first day of absence - by phone call or message and followed up in writing. Please do not hesitate to contact school should you have any concerns about your child’s school attendance.

Pupils
Pupils are responsible (age appropriate) for making sure their own attendance is maintained at the highest level. Pupils who do experience attendance difficulties will be offered prompt and sympathetic support, initially from class tutor/teacher, and should the need arise from a senior member of staff.

School
Staff will endeavour to encourage good attendance and punctuality through personal example. Attendance is the responsibility of all staff (not just teaching staff). The school will employ a range of strategies to encourage good attendance and punctuality and promptly investigate all absences.
Liaising closely with parents. Staff will respond to absenteeism firmly, consistently and with care.

How can we all help your child's Attendance?

What can parents do to help?
Make sure your child goes to school regularly, arrives on time and attends all lessons. Start these habits at an early age. If you feel your child is starting to develop problems talk to someone in school.

What can school do to help?
Notify school as soon as possible if you are concerned about your child’s attendance. School will be able to support your child through these difficult times and offer advice and assistance.

How can the Education Welfare Service help?
Education Welfare Officers work closely with schools, parents and pupils. They have vast experience working with pupils who have problems. They can arrange a home or school visit to discuss appropriate solutions.