Attendance and Punctuality


We believe that 'Every Lesson Counts' and that any absence from school has the potential to leave gaps in children's learning. Children actually spend very little overall time in school, and they only get one chance at their Primary education, so it is vital that they are here and making the most of what is on offer. There is a direct link between children's achievements at school and their attendance. The worse a child's attendance, the worse they do at school and the fewer chances in life they have open to them. 

It is expected that children will not be taken out of school during term time unless there is a very good reason. Each year there are 190 school days which leaves 175 days for holidays, shopping, birthday treats and non urgent medical and dental appointments. Therefore, the school is very unlikely to authorise absence for these reasons.

Government policy has changed in recent years to limit the ability of Headteachers to authorise term time absence for holidays of any length. Authorisation for leave in ‘exceptional circumstances’ remains.

If you have an ‘exceptional circumstance’ that means you have no option but to take your child out of school during term time, please contact the office to  make a request for Term Time Absence. You can also arrange an appointment to see the Headteacher to discuss your application. Every application is considered individually so the more information you can provide the better able we are to make a decision. Please note that going on holiday during term time will very rarely be considered an 'exceptional circumstance'.

Parents/carers who take their children out of school during term-time without authorisation could face Penalty Notices issued from the Local Authority.