Attendance continues to be a major focus nationally, across our Academy Trust, and here at our school. We are committed to working closely with parents and carers to support every child’s regular attendance, as we know that nothing matters more to a child’s learning than being in school consistently. High-quality teaching, a rich curriculum and positive relationships can only make an impact when children are present to benefit from them.
If your child’s attendance begins to cause concern, the first step will always be a conversation with the class teacher to explore what’s happening and how we can help. We aim to identify any difficulties early so that we can work together to find solutions.
We are also placing emphasis on positive attendance messages, celebrating good attendance with parents and children through class points, stickers and encouraging feedback.
The NHS provides clear guidance on when children are well enough to attend school. Most mild illnesses, such as a runny nose, sore throat, or slight cough do not require time off school, unless a child has a temperature. Parents know their child best. In some cases, children may be well enough to return to school sooner than expected—for example, a headache in the morning may improve after rest and medication, meaning they can attend the afternoon session.
At times, we may contact you to better understand any challenges your family may be facing. These conversations help us support you more effectively and ensure children do not become persistently absent. While we follow both local and national guidance, our priority is always to work alongside families in a supportive and understanding way, with formal processes only used in exceptional circumstances.
You can check your child’s attendance on the Arbor app, but please remember that the percentage shown is cumulative from September onwards. This means it may appear lower at certain points in the year, so there is no need to worry if it doesn’t yet reflect recent or future improvements.
Absence
If your child is absent from school for any reason, please let us know by telephone, email or in person on the first day of absence. Please note that you will need to contact school on each day of absence – even if the absence is continuous. Please also note that on your child’s return to school, you may be asked to bring to the office medical evidence relating to their absence.
If a phone call or note is not received, the school will contact you. Please ensure you give enough specific detail for us to make an absence authorisation decision. If we require more information, we may call you back or visit home.
A pupil’s absence from school will be considered as unauthorised until a satisfactory explanation is received from the parent. We will follow our safeguarding proceedures if we are worried about your child or family.
Persistent Absence
Persistent absence is when a child’s attendance falls to 90% or below, which is the equivalent of missing 38 sessions (19 days) over the school year. Even small amounts of missed learning can quickly add up, so we are working hard to identify any barriers that may be preventing regular attendance. Our aim is to support families early, before absence becomes a long‑term pattern with no improvement. We may contact you to gather more information or to offer help, as working together gives children the best chance to succeed.
What are authorised and unauthorised absences?
Authorised absences are absences which the school seeks to allow. This can include:
- Sickness / illness with medical evidence
- Emergency dental / medical appointment (please make routine appointments after school hours)
- Day of religious observance (a per the annual faith calendar)
Except in the case of illness, you should ask for permission for your child to miss school in advance, giving full details. Requests for absence during term time must be made to the Principal.
Government guidelines, prevent Principals from granting any leave of absence during term time, unless there are exceptional circumstances. If a request for leave is granted, it is at the Principal’s discretion to determine the number of school days a child can be away from school. The current law does not give any entitlement to parents to take their child on holiday during term time and parents can be fined. Please also be aware that any unauthorised absence will remain on your child’s record for the entire duration of their education.
Unauthorised absence refers to absences which the school does not allow. This can include:
- Family holidays
- Day trips
- Your child missing school for their birthday
- Shopping
Lateness
If your child is absent or late to the extent that it begins to affect their progress we will speak to you or send you a letter.
Help with getting your child to go to school
If you’re having trouble getting your child to go to school, the school and local council can help.
You can contact the Pastoral Team via email (pastoral@redwellprimary.co.uk) or call the office on 01933 676040.
Parents can also contact the Education Inclusion Partnership Team for advice and support.
Attendance and Behaviour Support for Parents