Students are expected to attend school for a minimum of 32.5 hours per week. This includes break and lunch times but excludes extracurricular activities, meaning some students may exceed this time.

Reporting a Student's Absence

• If your child is absent, please call the absence line by 8:30am each day they are away.
• Voicemails left will be passed to the relevant year team to ensure accurate attendance records.
• Please provide a detailed reason for the absence. If the reason is unclear, you will be asked to call back.

Importance of Attendance

The government requires at least 96% attendance. Missing 10 days or more in a year makes it difficult for students to achieve this and can impact their progress.

• Year Teams and the Attendance Officer will support students with attendance concerns. If needed, the Education Welfare Service will be involved.

Requesting a Leave of Absence

The law no longer allows automatic permission for holidays during term time. Leave will only be granted in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the Principal.

• Holidays due to affordability or parental work schedules are unlikely to qualify.
• Unauthorised absences may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £160 per parent per child.

Support for Parents

• Ensure your child attends regularly and on time.
• Contact your child's Year Team or the Attendance Officer for support. You can find their details on the contact page or call the Reception.
• Holidays during examination periods will not be authorised.

Authorised Absences

The following situations are usually considered unavoidable:

• Genuine illness
• Religious festivals/ ceremonies
• Medical or dental appointments
• Hospital treatment
• Family funerals
• Interviews for jobs or colleges
• Participation in public performances or exams

Unauthorised Absences

These reasons are typically avoidable and will not be authorised:

• Minor illness
• Staying home for house-related tasks (deliveries, workmen, etc.)
• Preparing for a holiday or collecting relatives
• Looking after siblings
• Family business, housework, or caring for relatives
• Being unhappy or not getting on with other students

Remember: POOR ATTENDANCE = POOR ATTAINMENT!

For more details on Penalty Notice fines starting from 19 August 2024, please read the Council’s Code of Conduct below.