In order to help your child understand the importance of their education, your support in ensuring that attendance is regular and punctual is vital. Persistent lateness means your child is missing essential learning experiences.
Children should not arrive in school before 8.30 a.m. Doors are open from 8.35 a.m. with doors closing at 8.45am to start the school day.
If children are late then letters will be sent home informing parents of the fact. Persistent lateness will result in a referral to the Local Authority.
The Education (Pupils’ Attendance Records) Regulations 1991
Due to more stringent regulations regarding attendance of children at school, it is more important than ever that you abide by the following regulations:
- All school absences must be explained in writing or by telephone, preferably on the first day of absence, or that absence will be recorded as unauthorised.
- No child should be late for school, and if so, this also should be explained in writing or by telephone.
- Permission should be sought from the headteacher for a known absence, e.g. a family holiday.
- No more than ten days can be authorised in any one academic year. This is not an automatic right. (Holiday permission forms are available from the school office.)
Failure to follow the above regulations strictly will result in numerous unauthorised absences which we are obliged to publish in the attendance data which will appear in our school prospectus and annual report.
It is also most important that for any absence known in advance, i.e. family holidays, music or ballet examinations, etc. permission must be sought in writing from the Headteacher.
If permission is not sought or granted then the absence will be reported as unauthorised.